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Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes & Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders

Comprehensive diagnosis and treatment for EDS and HSD

Are you experiencing joint hypermobility, easily bruising skin, or other connective tissue problems that your doctor has struggled to diagnose? You may consider getting evaluated for Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) or hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) at Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare.

What Are Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes?

EDS and HSD are a group of genetic disorders that affect connective tissues, particularly the skin, tendons, ligaments, blood vessel walls, and internal organs. Symptoms may vary depending on the form and severity of the condition.

Classified into several distinct subtypes, EDS are genetic disorders that vary both in how they affect the body and in their genetic causes. While there is no cure for EDS, symptoms can be treated to improve mobility and overall quality of life. The three main subtypes of EDS are Classic, Hypermobile, and Vascular.

Symptoms often include but aren’t limited to:

  • Loose or unstable joints
  • Frequent joint dislocation
  • Chronic joint pain
  • Chronic gastrointestinal symptoms
  • Kyphoscoliosis
  • Highly elastic, velvety skin
  • Frequent allergic type reactions
  • Fragile or easily bruised skin
  • Chronic headaches or neck pain
  • Abnormal scarring
  • Slow wound healing
  • Heart valve problems
  • Increased heart rate and dizziness

Evaluation and Treatment

If you or a loved one has already been diagnosed with an EDS or HSD, you probably know how hard it is to find clinicians with experience treating these conditions. Our program is overseen by a family medicine doctor with more than 10 years’ experience treating EDS and HSD.

If your symptoms suggest EDS, we can offer diagnostic testing by history and physical exam, as well as genetic testing (dependent on your insurance coverage) to rule out some of the more uncommon types of EDS. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, our physician specialist will work with your primary care doctor to develop a comprehensive, therapy-based treatment plan to alleviate your symptoms and improve your quality of life.

Because EDS sometimes presents with co-morbidities, our specialist will also perform a
comprehensive evaluation of your neurological health, heart health, and more, examining symptoms, family medical history, and medical test results. Casa Colina staff will also coordinate annual follow-ups to ensure your treatment plan—which will likely include physical therapy and occupational therapy—is continuing to work for you.

Experienced Therapists Who Know EDS

Casa Colina offers a dedicated, comprehensive EDS program, including specially trained therapists who work with EDS patients on a regular basis. Casa Colina is home to a wide range of therapeutic specialists, including physical, occupational, and hand therapists, speech-language pathologists, and pelvic floor specialists experienced in treating complex conditions.

Our EDS therapy team will tailor your treatment plan to your unique condition, employing safe,
effective exercises such as light weight training, isometric holds, and the option for aquatic therapy. Our therapy plans focus on building strength and endurance, protecting your joints, and improving your stability, all with the goal of getting you back to doing the things you love.

Recognized Expertise

As of June 2024, Casa Colina is one of only 17 facilities in the United States and one of 3 in California recognized by the Ehlers-Danlos Society’s Centers and Networks of Excellence program. Recognized programs demonstrate a commitment to the mission of the Ehlers-Danlos Society, increasing the availability of clinical services, decreasing the diagnostic odyssey, and standardizing communication and patient-centered care for those impacted by these complex disorders. Criteria for recognition include a commitment to inclusivity and patient validation, demonstrated proficiency and up-to-date training in Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD), and an organizational commitment to EDS/HSD research and education.

Other Expert Staff

If you are living with an EDS, then you know its symptoms can be wide-ranging and extend beyond the scope of primary care. Casa Colina is home to a range of physician specialists who are available to help treat any number of complex EDS symptoms.

Our program refers patients to other specialists as needed, many of which are right here on our
20-acre Pomona campus. These may include:

  • Cardiologists
  • Gastroenterologists
  • Neurologists
  • Neurosurgeons
  • Psychologists/Neuropsychologists
  • Pain management specialists
  • Radiologists
  • Rheumatologists
  • Urologists

Community Support

Casa Colina recognizes the need for increased resources for individuals diagnosed with EDS and HSD. That’s why we offer a monthly EDS support group. Our group offers not only emotional and peer support, but important educational information. For more information visit our Support Groups page.

For more information or to schedule an evaluation with our team, please call 909/596-7733, ext. 3800 or toll-free 866/724-4127, ext. 3800 or contact us now.

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