Pain and Hypermobility with Dr. Linda Bluestein as part of the Mast Cell Matters series

In this episode of the 'Mast Cell Matters' podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, an anesthesiologist and pain specialist, discusses how hypermobility syndromes, especially Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), relate to pain and mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS). Emphasizing her personal experience with EDS, Dr. Bluestein explains the comprehensive management strategies she uses to help patients. These involve a wide approach covering movement, education, nutrition, sleep, and psychosocial factors, while minimizing medications. She discusses the role of mast cells in pain, the potential interactions with the nervous system, and how MCAS-stabilizing treatments can benefit patients with EDS and POTS. The conversation also covers the use of opioids and safer alternatives like ketamine and cannabis for managing pain, and touches on the overlap between MCAS, dysautonomia, and connective tissue disorders.