Many people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) search for answers like, “Can chiropractic care help with EDS?” or “What’s the best way to manage joint pain with EDS?” EDS is a connective tissue disorder that affects collagen, leading to joint hypermobility, chronic pain, and frequent subluxations (partial joint dislocations).
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located in Midtown East near Grand Central Terminal and Murray Hill, we provide gentle chiropractic care tailored for individuals with hypermobile EDS (hEDS) and other types of EDS. Our focus is on stabilizing the spine, improving joint function, and reducing pain while ensuring that adjustments are safe and effective.
What Is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?
EDS is a group of genetic disorders that affect collagen production, the protein responsible for joint stability, skin elasticity, and connective tissue integrity. There are several types of EDS, but the most common is hypermobile EDS (hEDS), which primarily affects joints, ligaments, and the spine.
Common Symptoms of EDS:
• Joint hypermobility (loose or unstable joints)
• Frequent joint dislocations or subluxations
• Chronic muscle and joint pain
• Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) (common in hEDS patients)
• Soft, stretchy skin that bruises easily
• Fatigue and muscle weakness
• Dysautonomia (issues with blood pressure and circulation)
EDS can make it difficult to engage in physical activity without experiencing pain or instability, which is why specialized chiropractic care can be beneficial when approached correctly.
Is Chiropractic Care Safe for People with EDS?
One of the biggest concerns people with EDS have is whether chiropractic adjustments are safe for hypermobile joints. Traditional high-force spinal adjustments (manual cracking) can sometimes be too aggressive for people with EDS, leading to increased joint instability.
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness in Midtown Manhattan, we use a gentle, customized approach for EDS patients, focusing on:
• Low-force, precision adjustments to avoid overstretching ligaments
• Soft tissue work and myofascial release to relieve muscle tension
• Postural strengthening exercises to improve joint stability
• Nervous system regulation techniques to address POTS and dysautonomia symptoms
By using non-invasive, supportive techniques, we help strengthen the body rather than over-mobilizing it, ensuring that each adjustment is safe and beneficial for individuals with EDS.
Common Joint and Spine Issues in People with EDS
EDS affects multiple areas of the body, often leading to chronic pain, spinal misalignment, and joint instability. Common EDS-related conditions include:
1. Chronic Neck and Back Pain
Due to ligament laxity and weak connective tissue, people with EDS often experience:
• Cervical spine instability (craniocervical instability – CCI)
• Frequent misalignments in the upper and lower spine
• Muscle compensation and spasms from trying to stabilize loose joints
How Chiropractic Can Help:
• Gentle cervical spine support techniques to reduce strain on the neck
• Postural correction therapy to relieve pressure on hypermobile joints
• Soft tissue release for muscle tightness in the back and shoulders
2. Frequent Joint Subluxations and Instability
Because of weak ligaments, joints in the shoulders, hips, knees, and spine may partially slip out of place (subluxations), causing pain and muscle tightness.
How Chiropractic Can Help:
• Proprioceptive training to improve body awareness and joint control
• Isometric strengthening exercises to stabilize the joints without excessive movement
• Taping and bracing recommendations for extra joint support
3. Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) and Dysautonomia
Many people with hypermobile EDS (hEDS) also have POTS, a condition where the nervous system struggles to regulate blood pressure and heart rate. This can lead to:
• Dizziness and fainting upon standing
• Chronic fatigue and poor circulation
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
How Chiropractic Can Help:
• Gentle spinal adjustments to improve nervous system regulation
• Vagus nerve stimulation techniques to help manage autonomic function
• Lymphatic drainage techniques to reduce fluid retention and improve circulation
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we take a holistic approach to addressing the underlying nervous system imbalances that contribute to POTS symptoms.
How to Support Joint and Spine Health with EDS
Because Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome affects connective tissue, people with EDS benefit from a comprehensive care plan that includes chiropractic, movement therapy, and lifestyle modifications.
1. Gentle Strength Training for Joint Stability
Strengthening muscles around hypermobile joints is essential for long-term pain relief. The focus should be on:
• Isometric exercises (holding a position without moving) to activate stabilizing muscles
• Low-impact strength training (pilates, resistance bands) to prevent joint stress
• Core strengthening to protect the spine and improve posture
2. Soft Tissue Therapy and Myofascial Release
Many EDS patients experience chronic muscle tension due to the body’s attempt to stabilize loose joints. Soft tissue therapy can:
• Reduce muscle knots and trigger points
• Improve blood flow and circulation
• Enhance overall flexibility without overstretching ligaments
3. Chiropractic Adjustments for Spinal Health
For people with EDS, chiropractic adjustments should be:
• Low-force and specific (not forceful manual cracking)
• Customized to avoid overstretching already loose joints
• Focused on reducing nerve irritation and muscle compensation patterns
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, located near Grand Central Terminal and Midtown East, we specialize in safe chiropractic care for hypermobility and EDS.
4. Hydration and Nutrition for Connective Tissue Support
Collagen and connective tissue health can be supported by:
• Adequate hydration (dehydration worsens joint instability)
• Anti-inflammatory foods (leafy greens, omega-3s, turmeric)
• Vitamin C and magnesium, which help with collagen formation and muscle function
When to See a Chiropractor for EDS-Related Pain
You may benefit from chiropractic care if you have:
• Chronic joint pain and instability
• Frequent neck, back, or shoulder misalignments
• Recurring headaches or muscle tightness from poor posture
• Postural issues due to weak ligaments and connective tissue dysfunction
At Unity Chiropractic Wellness, we provide EDS-friendly chiropractic care near Murray Hill and Midtown Manhattan, helping patients manage pain, joint instability, and spinal health with a gentle, supportive approach.
Final Thoughts: Can Chiropractic Help with EDS?
For individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, chiropractic care can be a safe and effective tool when done correctly. By using gentle spinal adjustments, muscle stabilization techniques, and postural therapy, chiropractic can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and support long-term joint health.
If you’re looking for EDS-friendly chiropractic care in New York City, schedule an appointment at Unity Chiropractic Wellness today! Conveniently located near Grand Central Terminal and Midtown East, we specialize in gentle, customized chiropractic care for hypermobility and joint pain relief.