66. Codifying Upper Cervical Instability with Leslie Russek, DPT, PhD

In this Bendy Bodies podcast episode, Leslie Russek, DPT, PhD, discusses the presentation and management of upper cervical instability (UCI) in patients with symptomatic generalized joint hypermobility (S-GJH), such as those with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). The episode covers the recent publication of international expert consensus guidelines for screening, assessing, and managing UCI. Dr. Russek explains the distinction between hypermobility and instability and the importance of addressing musculoskeletal versus neurological symptoms in UCI. She also highlights criteria for determining irritability in patients and the relevance of yellow and red flags during diagnosis. The discussion emphasizes the need for personalized and flexible therapeutic approaches, as well as the challenges of finding knowledgeable clinicians. Dr. Russek underlines the value of patient education and self-management as a core component of managing UCI and related conditions.