Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: Can Chiropractic Care Help?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of connective tissue disorders that affects collagen production in the body. Collagen is the "glue" that helps hold joints, skin, and organs together. In EDS, that glue tends to be too stretchy or fragile, which can lead to joint hypermobility, chronic pain, instability, and frequent subluxations (partial dislocations).
As awareness around EDS grows, more patients are exploring supportive therapies to manage symptoms and protect mobility. Chiropractic care, especially when customized with a gentle and informed approach, can be a valuable piece of the puzzle.
Understanding EDS and Joint Hypermobility
EDS is an umbrella term that includes several types, but the most common is Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). People with hEDS often experience:
Frequent joint pain and fatigue
Recurrent sprains or dislocations
Headaches, especially cervicogenic or tension-type
TMJ dysfunction
Poor proprioception (body awareness)
Sensitivity to manual therapies or deep pressure
Because their connective tissue is more elastic than average, traditional force-based or high-velocity treatments can be too aggressive or even harmful if not adapted.
Can Chiropractic Help?
Yes — but only with a nuanced, informed approach. Chiropractic care can help EDS patients by:
Improving joint alignment without excessive force
Supporting neuromuscular coordination
Relieving muscle tension that builds from overcompensation
Enhancing body awareness and postural control
Addressing related conditions like TMJ dysfunction or postural fatigue
It is essential that care is not one-size-fits-all and is instead tailored to the patient’s specific stability needs, symptom presentation, and nervous system sensitivity.
What Kind of Chiropractic is Appropriate?
For individuals with EDS or joint hypermobility, these techniques are often safer and more effective:
Low-force adjustments (such as drop table or instrument-assisted)
Soft tissue work for overly tight or compensating muscle groups
Craniosacral therapy or gentle decompression techniques
Joint proprioception and stabilization strategies
Nervous system-focused care, like vagus nerve support or breathing integration
The goal is not to push things back into place repeatedly, but to restore balance, reduce strain, and help the body become more coordinated and supported over time.
What to Look Out For
If you have EDS and are considering chiropractic care, be sure your provider:
Understands connective tissue disorders and is experienced with hypermobility
Is willing to modify or skip traditional adjustments, especially in the neck
Incorporates informed consent and clear communication
Focuses on function, not force or frequency of "cracks"
Respects your feedback and pacing, especially if you experience post-treatment flares
Final Thoughts
While chiropractic is not a cure for Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, it can be a helpful part of a well-rounded care plan, especially when integrated with physical therapy, movement training, and nervous system regulation.
With a gentle and attentive approach, chiropractic can help reduce pain, improve joint coordination, and empower patients to feel more at ease in their own bodies.
