Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Whether you’re bendy with all the benefits or hurting in all the wrong places, you’ve come to the right place for all things hypermobility. Connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are often dismissed or overlooked by healthcare providers as a cause of chronic pain. But if you or someone you care about struggles with the life-altering symptoms of hypermobility, you should know YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At the Bendy Bodies Podcast, we understand.
Each week, join Dr. Linda Bluestein (The Hypermobility MD) as she pulls back the curtain on how to prevent injury and unnecessary suffering in “double-jointed” individuals seeking a more comfortable life in their unique, complex “bendy bodies.” When you tune in, you’re engaging in more than a podcast. Both on-air and online, you’re joining a supportive community where patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals trade insights, life hacks, and inspiring stories to embrace our Bendy Bodies journey together!

Latest Episodes:

hEDS vs HSD: Controversies in Diagnosis with Alan Hakim, MD (Ep 110) Sep 12, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, welcomes Dr. Alan Hakim, a world-renowned rheumatologist and expert in Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD). Dr. Hakim reveals for the first time something about his own health. Listen in to find out what Dr. Hakim really thinks about the Beighton Score and the 2017 hEDS Classification Criteria. He also shares when he feels genetic testing is indicated and how to interpret variants of uncertain significance (VUSs).

Takeaways:

Difference Between Connective Tissue Disorders: Dr. Hakim clarifies the difference between hereditary connective tissue disorders like EDS and autoimmune connective tissue disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.

Evolving EDS Criteria: The 2017 classification of EDS has improved the understanding of conditions like hypermobile EDS, but there’s still ongoing research and work being done to refine the criteria. Dr. Hakim shares his thoughts on the criteria and the process.

Comorbidities in EDS and HSD: Conditions such as POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and GI disorders often accompany hypermobility-related disorders, though more research is needed to establish how these comorbidities are connected.

The Importance of Instability: Joint instability, rather than just hypermobility, may play a more significant role in patient symptoms, making proper diagnosis and treatment plans essential.

Future of Genetic Testing: While genetic markers for hypermobile EDS have not yet been identified, significant research is underway to find biomarkers and better understand the genetic components of these disorders. Dr. Hakim shares his thoughts on when genetic testing should be performed and covers red flags for more rare types of EDS and other hereditary connective tissue disorders.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Alan Hakim:

Instagram: @ehlers.danlos

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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How EDS and HSD Impact Fascia and Pain with Tina Wang, MD (Ep 109) Sep 05, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, welcomes Dr. Tina Wang, a leading expert in physical medicine, rehabilitation, and fascia research. Dr. Wang delves into the complexities of fascia, particularly its role in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD). She explains how fascial dysfunction contributes to myofascial pain, joint instability, and other challenges faced by individuals with hypermobility. Dr. Wang also discusses innovative diagnostic techniques and treatment approaches, including the use of ultrasound and manual therapy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who wants to better understand their pain, or is interested in the cutting-edge research and clinical insights on fascia and connective tissue disorders.

Takeaways:

Fascia’s Role in EDS: Fascia plays a crucial role in connective tissue disorders like EDS and HSD, impacting everything from joint stability to chronic pain.

Myofascial Pain: Myofascial pain, often misunderstood, can be a significant source of discomfort in hypermobility conditions due to fascial dysfunction.

Ultrasound for Diagnosis: Advanced ultrasound techniques are improving the ability to diagnose fascial changes and guide treatment in EDS patients.

Manual Therapy Benefits: Proper manual therapy can help alleviate fascial dysfunction, but it must be approached cautiously, especially in hypermobile patients.

Holistic Management: Managing hypermobility-related pain requires a holistic approach, including movement therapy, manual therapy, and collaboration with healthcare professionals.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Dr. Tina Wang:

Linkedin: @tupelopointe

Tiktok: @tupelopointe

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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Welcome, Bendy Buddies! Aug 30, 2024

Show notes

Each week, join Dr. Linda Bluestein (AKA The Hypermobility MD) on her quest to demystify the wide world of symptomatic joint hypermobility. Get ready to better understand your own bendy body in our newest season – available now!

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Overcoming Pain in EDS: Building Stronger Bodies with Whealth Founders Katie & Andrew Dettelbach (Ep 108) Aug 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, chats with Katie and Andrew Dettelbach, founders of Whealth, a program dedicated to helping people with hypermobility and chronic pain. Both Katie and Andrew have hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and have turned their personal struggles into a platform that empowers others to manage their pain and regain strength. Katie, a critical care nurse, and Andrew, a kinesiologist, discuss their journeys, challenges with hypermobility, and the innovative methods they’ve developed to help thousands worldwide overcome chronic pain. Learn how movement, strength, and understanding your body can transform your life.

Takeaways:

Movement and Hypermobility: Finding the right type of movement is crucial for managing hypermobility and chronic pain, though it may take trial and error.

Strength Training and Pain Relief: Tailored strength training can significantly reduce pain and improve function in hypermobile bodies.

Listening to the Body: It’s essential to distinguish between good and bad pain, adjusting your activities accordingly.

Holistic Approach: Programs like Whealth emphasize not just movement but also nutrition, stress management, and environment for better overall health.

Self-Compassion: Managing chronic conditions requires patience and self-compassion, recognizing that healing and strength-building is a journey.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!

Learn about Whealth Founders Katie & Andrew Dettelbach:

X / Twitter: @spreadwhealth

Instagram: @whealth

Facebook: @spreadwhealth

Youtube: @whealth

Tiktok: @whealth_

Andrew IG: @the.shirtlessdude

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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Grief, Healing, and Mental Health Strategies for Chronic Illness with Natasha Trujillo, PhD (Ep 107) Aug 22, 2024

Show notes

In this insightful episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with Dr. Natasha Trujillo, a licensed sports psychologist specializing in grief, loss, and chronic illness. Dr. Trujillo and Dr. Bluestien both work with the Colorado Ballet. Dr. Trujillo discusses the complex emotional landscape of grieving when faced with chronic pain, disability, and the loss of identity. She shares valuable strategies for processing grief, moving towards acceptance, and navigating self-compassion. Whether you’ve experienced grief from illness, injury, or significant life changes, this episode provides tools and approaches to living a fuller, more resilient life.

Takeaways:

Grief Beyond Death: Grief can occur after any significant loss, not just death, especially when living with chronic illness and disability.

Acceptance and Resilience: Acceptance is not about giving up; it’s about acknowledging reality while continuing to strive for personal growth and well-being.

Grief is Nonlinear: The stages of grief do not always follow a predictable order and can vary widely from person to person.

Processing Emotions: Identifying, expressing, and working through emotions are key steps in moving through grief and loss.

Self-Compassion: Developing self-compassion is crucial when dealing with grief and loss, as it helps counteract self-blame and fosters emotional healing.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Learn about Dr. Natasha Trujillo:

Instagram: @npttherapy

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Group Rehabilitation for POTS with Emily Rich, OT (Ep 106) Aug 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, sits down with Emily Rich, an occupational therapist specializing in POTS (Postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome), Ehlers-Danlos syndromes, and other chronic conditions. Emily, who is also a patient with hypermobile EDS and POTS, shares her insights on how occupational therapy can help individuals regain control over their daily lives. From adaptive tools to fatigue management strategies, Emily provides practical advice and discusses her groundbreaking research on group rehabilitation programs for POTS. Tune in to learn how to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life with expert guidance.

Takeaways:

Occupational Therapy for POTS: Occupational therapy can play a crucial role in helping POTS patients manage daily tasks and improve their quality of life through adaptive tools and strategies.

Group Rehabilitation Programs: Emily Rich has developed a group-based rehabilitation program that combines occupational therapy, physical therapy, and mindfulness to help POTS patients manage symptoms effectively.

Managing Fatigue: Fatigue is a significant challenge for individuals with POTS and EDS. Techniques like pacing, energy conservation, and strategic rest breaks can help manage energy levels.

The Role of Compression: Proper use of compression garments, including abdominal binders, can significantly help manage POTS symptoms by improving blood circulation and reducing symptoms like dizziness and fainting.

Holistic Approaches: Emily emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to managing POTS and EDS, incorporating lifestyle changes, movement, and psychological support to enhance overall well-being.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Learn about Emily Rich:

Instagram / YouTube: @emilyrichot

Linkedin: @emilymrich

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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Understanding the Brain's Role in Chronic Pain with Kaitlin Touza, PhD (Ep 105) Aug 08, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, engages in an enlightening conversation with Dr. Kaitlin Touza, a renowned pain psychologist. Dr. Touza delves into the complexities of chronic pain, explaining how the nervous system, brain processes, and psychological factors contribute to pain experiences. She discusses multiple different pain management techniques while emphasizing the benefits of understanding pain neuroscience. Dr. Touza also highlights the value of self-compassion and psychological flexibility in improving quality of life for those with chronic pain.

Takeaways:

Psychological Factors and Pain: Psychological factors such as stress, anxiety, and fear can significantly influence the perception of chronic pain and its severity.

Pain as a Danger Signal: Pain is often a response to perceived danger, not just physical injury. The brain’s interpretation of pain involves complex neural circuits.

Cognitive and Behavioral Therapy: CBT and ACT are effective therapies for managing chronic pain by addressing thought patterns and behaviors that influence pain perception.

Importance of Self-Compassion: Developing self-compassion and psychological flexibility can improve resilience and coping strategies for individuals with chronic pain.

Understanding Pain Neuroscience: Educating patients and healthcare providers about pain neuroscience can empower individuals to better manage their pain and improve their quality of life.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Learn about Kaitlin Touza:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaitlin-touza-phd-9117148a/

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

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Connective Tissue Disorders and Lipedema with Karen Herbst, MD (Ep 104) Aug 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, hosts an enlightening discussion with Dr. Karen Herbst, a leading expert on lipedema and other adipose connective tissue diseases. Dr. Herbst shares her extensive knowledge on the complexities of lipedema, Dercum's disease, and their connection to connective tissue disorders, inflammation, and hormonal factors. Learn about the latest research, diagnostic challenges, and effective treatments, including diet, supplements, and surgery. Don't miss the valuable insights and practical advice shared in this episode.

Takeaways:

Lipedema Misdiagnosis: Lipedema is often misdiagnosed as regular obesity or confused with lymphedema, highlighting the need for better awareness and diagnostic criteria.

Connection to Hormones: Hormonal changes, such as those during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause, can trigger or worsen lipedema due to increased fat and hormonal fluctuations.

Inflammation and Fibrosis: Inflammation in lipedema leads to fibrosis, making the tissue nodular and tender, and potentially contributing to the chronic pain experienced by patients.

Diet and Supplements: Anti-inflammatory diets, intermittent fasting, and certain supplements like berberine and CoQ10 can help manage lipedema symptoms by reducing inflammation and supporting metabolic health.

Surgical and Non-Surgical Treatments: While liposuction can significantly improve symptoms, non-surgical treatments such as compression therapy, manual lymphatic drainage, and whole-body vibration are also beneficial in managing lipedema.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Learn about Dr. Karen Herbst:

Instagram: @advancedlipedematreatment

Tik Tok: @alt.program

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Linking Mast Cell Activation, Autoimmunity, and EDS with Kara Wada, MD (Ep 103) Jul 25, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, delves into the intricate connections between the immune system and hypermobility disorders with Dr. Kara Wada. A quadruple board-certified physician and Sjogren's patient, Dr. Wada shares her expertise on mast cell activation syndrome, autoimmunity, and the role of inflammation. Discover holistic approaches to managing these conditions and gain valuable insights into the latest research and treatments. Don't miss the special hypermobility hacks at the end!

Takeaways:

Interplay Between Immune System and EDS: The immune system plays a significant role in hypermobility disorders, with conditions like mast cell activation syndrome and autoimmunity frequently seen in patients with EDS.

Differences in Allergy and Mast Cell Activation: Allergy involves the immune system's memory of proteins, whereas mast cell activation syndrome can be triggered by various factors, often without the presence of traditional allergies.

Inflammation's Role in Chronic Conditions: Chronic inflammation is a core issue in many modern diseases, including EDS and autoimmune disorders. It's the body's prolonged response to injury or infection that can lead to various health issues.

Impact of Hormones: Hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, significantly influence immune system functioning and can affect conditions like POTS, often seen in EDS patients.

Holistic and Lifestyle Approaches: Managing EDS and related conditions can benefit from holistic approaches, including anti-inflammatory diets, regular movement, adequate sleep, and stress management techniques such as meditation and journaling.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Learn about Kara Wada:

Website: https://www.drkarawada.com/

Instagram: @immuneconfidentmd

Youtube: @drkarawada

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Examining The Future of EDS Diagnosis and Care with EDS Society CEO Lara Bloom (Ep 102) Jul 18, 2024

Show notes

In this episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, hosts a captivating conversation with Lara Bloom, President and CEO of the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Lara shares her journey in advocating for rare diseases, the progress made in Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), and the upcoming updates in diagnostic criteria. Tune in to learn about the challenges, successes, and future directions in EDS research and patient care.

Takeaways:

Global Progress: The Ehlers-Danlos Society has significantly advanced global awareness and research on EDS and HSD.

Diagnosis Challenges: Misdiagnosis and lack of understanding among doctors persist; re-education efforts are ongoing.

Bloom's Journey: Lara Bloom's path from volunteer to CEO highlights the impact of lived experience in advocacy.

Diagnostic Criteria Update: The 2017 criteria for hypermobile EDS will be revisited by 2026, involving extensive research and collaboration.

Movement and Self-Care: Regular physical activity is crucial for managing EDS and HSD symptoms, as emphasized by both Bloom and Bluestein.

Connect with YOUR Bendy Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.

This episode is sponsored by EDS Guardians. If you want to learn more, check them out here: https://www.edsguardians.org/

Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.

Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com

Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com

YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓

Learn about Lara Bloom:

Website: https://www.larabloom.com/

Twitter: @larabloom

Instagram: @lara.bloom

Youtube: @LaraBloom

Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:

YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast

Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd

Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast

Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog

Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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