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 What is it? Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a collection of conditions that causes the various supportive tissues in our body, including our bones, joints and skin, to be extra flexible. These are also known as “hypermobility syndromes.” The most common type of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome can be found in many athletes. It involves having “loose joints” that are more flexible than others. This is a genetic syndrome meaning that true Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may be found in many members within the same family. Symptoms In athletes with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, they may notice increased flexibility compared to teammates, a history of frequent joint dislocations or joint pain. These athletes may also have extremely stretchy skin. A small number of individuals with EDS can have “flexibility” of their blood vessels and other body organs. This means that some patients with EDS can be at risk for increased bleeding and bruising throughout many parts of the body or more severe issues that can impact the heart or blood vessels. Sports Medicine Evaluation and Treatment A sports medicine physician will evaluate for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and other hypermobility syndromes when an athlete has a history of frequent injuries, especially if associated with frequent dislocations. Treatment for an isolated dislocation will include evaluation to ensure that the joint is moving appropriately again and that pain is resolving. Imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI, may be considered. If during the evaluation a history of frequent injuries is discovered, a sports medicine physician may evaluate for hypermobility by testing your skin and joints. A combination of tests makes up what is called the “Beighton Flexibility Score,” which could indicate a higher likelihood of EDS if elevated. This test will include movement of joints in the hand/wrist, elbow, knees and spine. A sports medicine physician may also ask about family members that are also very flexible, have had multiple joint dislocations, or heart or blood vessel problems. A referral to a doctor specialized in genetic testing may be performed. Injury Prevention A sports medicine physician will play an important role in helping an individual with EDS continue to succeed in sport. An athlete with EDS may be asked to work closely with an athletic trainer and/or a physical therapist to strengthen the muscles that surround and support joints to help prevent injury. Sometimes a specialized brace may also be utilized to help minimize stress on certain joints. Return to Play Athletes with EDS or other hypermobility syndromes will be at risk for frequent injuries. These athletes will benefit from following closely with the team physician, athletic trainer and physical therapist to avoid recurrent injury. Braces and an individualized physical therapy program will allow these athletes to remain in practice and avoid lost time. In a small number of athletes, if it is determined that the heart or blood vessels are affected, a sports medicine physician can help guide the athlete on their safe level of exercise since some contact sports or heavy weightlifting may be unsafe. AMSSM Member Authors References Category: Dermatology (Skin) Issues, Hematology (Blood) Issues, [Back] |
