Hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) & Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD)

Supporting You to Move with Confidence

Supporting You to Move with Confidence

Supporting You to Move with Confidence

Living with hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) or Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) can affect much more than your joints. Pain, instability, fatigue and other associated symptoms can make everyday activities challenging.

At My Community Physio and OT, our physiotherapists and occupational therapists work together to provide personalised, evidence-informed care that focuses on improving function, building confidence and helping you participate in the activities that matter most.

Whether you've recently been diagnosed or have been living with symptoms for years, we're here to support you.

What are EDS and HSD?

Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that can affect joints, skin and other body systems. The most common type is hypermobile EDS (hEDS).

Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD) describes people who experience symptoms related to joint hypermobility but do not meet the diagnostic criteria for hEDS.

Although they are different diagnoses, people with EDS and HSD often experience similar challenges and may benefit from similar management strategies.

Common Symptoms

Everyone's experience is different, but common symptoms may include:

  • Joint hypermobility

  • Frequent sprains or joint instability

  • Persistent pain

  • Muscle fatigue

  • Joint dislocations or subluxations

  • Poor balance or coordination

  • Soft or stretchy skin

  • Fatigue

  • Reduced exercise tolerance

  • Difficulty with everyday activities

Some people may also experience associated conditions such as POTS, dysautonomia, gastrointestinal symptoms or chronic headaches.

How Physiotherapy Can Help

Our physiotherapists focus on improving stability, strength and confidence while respecting your individual capacity.

Treatment may include:

  • Individualised strengthening programs

  • Joint stability exercises

  • Balance and proprioception training

  • Movement education

  • Pain management strategies

  • Pacing and activity modification

  • Exercise progression

  • Return to work or sport planning

  • Flare-up management

How Occupational Therapy Can Help

Occupational therapy focuses on helping you participate in everyday life while managing fatigue and protecting your joints.

Support may include:

  • Joint protection strategies

  • Energy conservation

  • Fatigue management

  • Daily routine planning

  • Assistive technology recommendations

  • Workplace and school accommodations

  • Functional assessments

  • Home modification recommendations

  • Goal setting

  • Our Approach

    We understand that living with EDS or HSD often involves managing symptoms over the long term.

    Our care is centred around:

    • Understanding your goals

    • Individualised rehabilitation

    • Building strength and confidence gradually

    • Supporting long-term self-management

    • Education and practical strategies

    • Helping you participate in everyday life

  • What to Expect at Your First Appointment

    Your first appointment is about getting to know you—not just your diagnosis.

    We'll take the time to understand your medical history, symptoms, goals and the activities that are important to you. A comprehensive assessment will help us understand how EDS or HSD is affecting your movement, function and daily life.

    Together, we'll develop an individualised management plan that reflects your current capacity and long-term goals. This may include physiotherapy, occupational therapy or a combination of both, depending on your needs.

    We understand that living with a connective tissue disorder can be complex, and our aim is to provide practical, personalised support that helps you feel confident moving forward.

  • Our Collaborative Approach

    Because EDS and HSD can affect many areas of daily life, our physiotherapists and occupational therapists work together to provide coordinated care.

    By combining expertise in physical rehabilitation and everyday function, we aim to help you improve confidence, maintain independence and achieve meaningful goals.

  • Why Choose Us

    ✔ Clinicians with a special interest in EDS / HSD

    ✔ Collaborative physiotherapy and occupational therapy

    ✔ Individualised, evidence-informed care

    ✔ Home visit, clinic and telehealth appointments

    ✔ Focus on education and self-management

    ✔ Goal-centred, practical treatment