An Integrative Approach to Treating Symptomatic Joint Hypermobility | Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD

Dr. Linda Bluestein discusses an integrative approach to managing symptomatic joint hypermobility at the ILC Conference. She outlines the nature of joint hypermobility and its implications, such as pain, fatigue, and potential comorbidities with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS). Dr. Bluestein emphasizes a multi-faceted treatment strategy using the acronym MEN'S PMMS, which incorporates movement, education, nutritional biochemistry, sleep, psychosocial factors, medications, modalities, and supplements. She advises against "party tricks" that exploit hypermobility and stresses the importance of carefully managing nutrition and psychological factors. Nonpharmacological interventions, such as physical therapy and movement correction, are prioritized over medications. For medication, off-label use is common, and clinicians must carefully navigate treatments specific to individual patient needs. She offers guidance for both patients and clinicians on maximizing treatment effectiveness and encourages proactive patient education and advocacy.