Dr. Linda Bluestein: Hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Connective Tissue Disorders

In this podcast episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein, a former ballet dancer and a leading expert on hypermobility and related connective tissue disorders, provides a comprehensive view on hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and other connective tissue disorders. She addresses the biomechanics of hypermobility, its impact on physical performance, especially in dancers and athletes, and outlines management strategies to mitigate health risks. Dr. Bluestein emphasizes the challenges of proprioception in hypermobile individuals, the risks of extreme flexibility, and the necessity of specialized training. She advocates for increased awareness and understanding of connective tissue disorders within the medical community, discussing both the prevalence and complexity of diagnosing and managing these conditions. Her insights are particularly valuable for patients, healthcare providers, and educators in physical disciplines. The episode underscores the need for comprehensive care approaches and highlights gaps in current medical training and systemic healthcare issues that can hinder effective diagnosis and management.