You may have heard the term “double jointed” before or even thought of yourself as having extra flexible joints. But for many people, having truly flexible joints is a debilitating condition.

Today, we at Your Next Step are talking about Ehler-Danlos syndrome (EDS), its effects on the feet and ankles, and how we, as podiatrists, manage it.

What is EDS?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome is a group of inherited disorders affecting the connective tissues that provide support to the skin, blood vessels, bones, and organs.

With EDS, collagen is weaker or more flexible than normal, which leads to a range of symptoms, including those affecting the feet and ankles. This translates to a constant battle against gravity and everyday movement.

How EDS Affects the Feet and Ankles

• Foot and Ankle Instability: Imagine your ankles feeling like they could give way at any moment. This is the reality for many with EDS. Frequent ankle sprains, sometimes multiple times a year, are a common complaint.
• Flat Feet and Overpronation: The laxity in the ligaments often leads to flat feet as the arch collapses under the body’s weight. This can cause overpronation, where the foot rolls inward excessively during walking, putting excessive strain on the ankles. This can also lead to plantar fasciitis.
• Pain and Discomfort: Chronic pain is a constant companion for many individuals with EDS. Over time, this constant strain and instability can lead to degenerative changes such as arthritis.
• Skin Hyperextensibility: The skin may be overly stretchy and fragile, which means the feet and ankles bruise easily and wounds are slow to heal.

Managing Foot and Ankle Problems in EDS

While there is no cure for EDS, various management strategies can help mitigate the symptoms and improve quality of life. These include:

• Supportive Footwear: Shoes with good arch support and ankle stability are crucial.
• Braces and Orthotics: Custom orthotics and ankle braces can provide external support and improve biomechanics.
• Physical Therapy: Strengthening exercises can help stabilize the joints and improve muscle support.
• Pain Management: A combination of medications, physical therapy, and alternative therapies can help address pain.

Dr. Eric Ricefield, Dr. Mark Yagodich, Dr. Aliza V. Eisen, and Dr. Cassandra Stache are eager to cater to your foot and ankle problems. Schedule your appointment and contact us today!