Navigating the Benefits and Considerations of Massage Therapy for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can be a daily challenge, as individuals with this condition often face chronic pain and various physical complications. Massage therapy can be a valuable tool for managing EDS-related discomfort, but finding the right therapist who understands the intricacies of EDS is paramount. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and considerations of massage therapy for EDS and highlight the importance of seeking guidance from informed professionals.

The Benefits of Massage Therapy for EDS

Massage therapy has long been recognized for its potential to alleviate pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve overall well-being. For those with EDS, the benefits can be particularly significant:

1. Chronic Pain Management: EDS often leads to musculoskeletal pain, joint hyper-mobility, and muscle tension, along with many other comorbidities that impacts the quality of daily living. Skilled massage therapists will have taken appropriate levels of education to be able to utilize their clinical reasoning better. EDS is a nuanced condition that can be quite painful and complex. Finding a therapist who understands this, and is a great listener will help you increase your quality of daily living through pain reduction.

2. Stress Reduction: Chronic pain and the challenges of managing EDS can take a toll on mental health and increase levels of cortisol in the body. Increased cortisol in the body leads to worsening symptoms. Massage therapy can be a relaxing and stress-reducing experience, which will help keep symptoms from rising. EDS management is about staying at a better baseline. So many of us with this condition need more attention to stress reduction than those who don't have a chronic condition like this. Zebras like us already have systemic issues that are made worse with a frazzled nervous system. This includes our digestion, sleep quality, recovery from exertion, and more.

3. Feelings of Connection: Many people with EDS are more isolated than other people because of our different levels of ability and access needs. Especially now in the time of Covid-19. Many of us may also have scent-sensitivities, allergies, histamine issues (like MCAS), mobility challenges, auto-immune disorders, and more. This means that we stay at home more, and maybe don't have the level of social activity we would like. Massage Therapy is proven to support feelings of connection to self, to others, and produces a natural chemical in our bodies called oxytocin. Oxytocin is important for stress reduction, feelings of being nurtured, and improved sleep quality.

The Critical Role of an Informed Massage Therapist

While massage therapy offers various benefits, it is crucial for individuals with EDS to consult with a knowledgeable and experienced therapist. Not all massage practitioners are well-versed in the complexities of EDS, and using the wrong techniques or tools can lead to unnecessary pain and potential injury.

1. Myofascial Stretching and "Fascial Blasting": EDS patients should be cautious about modalities that involve intense stretching or techniques like "Fascial Blasting." These techniques can strain already fragile connective tissues and lead to increased discomfort.

2. Avoiding Fast-Paced Techniques: Quick or vigorous massage techniques can be too harsh for individuals with EDS. Slower and gentler strokes are often more suitable to prevent exacerbating joint instability and tissue damage. Look for therapists who understand the subtleties of the nervous system. If you're looking for specific modalities you can try Cranio-Sacral from an evidence-based framework, Dermoneuromodulating, or Neurofascial work.

3. Educating Your Therapist: Unfortunately, not all massage therapists are well-informed about EDS. Even if you explain your condition to them, they may inadvertently use their usual routines that might not be suitable for you. This is why finding a therapist with specific knowledge of EDS is essential. Often times, massage therapists may go on auto pilot when working with you. It's important to also find someone who is very present and will communicate as much as needed to get things right for you.

Finding the Right Therapist for EDS

The challenge lies in locating a massage therapist who understands the intricacies of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Fortunately, the EDS community is becoming more aware of this need, and practices like Bodywork with Aera are leading the way in accommodating the unique requirements of EDS patients.

Aera Barnette, LMT, is one such therapist with a deep understanding of EDS. Working with knowledgeable professionals like Aera can significantly reduce the risk of exacerbating symptoms and improve the overall experience of massage therapy for EDS patients. If you're looking for someone closer to you consider the following:

1. Specialization in EDS: Look for therapists who advertise their expertise in working with EDS patients. You may also find someone experienced by looking for Medical Massage, Massage for Chronic Illness, or Massage for the Medically Complex.

2. Personal Consultation: Before your session, discuss your EDS-related concerns and needs with your therapist. A well-informed therapist will tailor the session to your specific requirements. If you have documentation from a physical therapist or doctor, put your therapist in touch with them!

3. Gentle Approach: Ensure the therapist prioritizes gentleness and understands the limitations of your condition. Ensure they understand how your joints dislocate (if they do), how much pressure is safe for you, and anything else about techniques you know have caused you pain or injury in the past. You can always adjust later sessions to be more satisfying. It's important for your therapist to build trust and open communication with you.

In conclusion, massage therapy can be a valuable component of EDS management, offering relief from pain and improved well-being. However, finding a therapist who understands the intricacies of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is paramount. Choosing a therapist like Aera Barnette, LMT, who specializes in EDS, can make a world of difference in your massage therapy experience, ensuring it is safe, effective, and supportive of your unique needs. #EhlosDanlosSyndrome #EhlosDanlos #EDS #ChronicIllness #ChronicPainManagement #PainRelief #MedicalMassage #Hypermobility #Spoonie #Massage #WellnessCoach #WellnessBlog #BodyworkwithAera #Disability #Accessibility