Taming the Zebra - It’s Much More than Hypermobility The Definitive Physical Therapy Guide to Managing HSD/EDS Volume 1: Systemic Involvement

by Patricia J. Stott, Heather Purdin

Medical providers commonly dismiss hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) as being benign. Those struggling with the complex and interacting systemic symptoms caused by their altered connective tissue can have worse health outcomes due to this limited view. Patients with HSD/EDS often fail in physical therapy, the treatment of choice for these conditions. This book explains the intricate interrelationships of the various systems of the body affected by connective tissue differences. It explores the impact of altered connective tissue from the cellular level to a whole person perspective and explains the problems leading to failed therapy attempts. This text is written for allied health professionals and astute patients, with summary boxes to call out key concepts and narrative patient stories to solidify learning. The reader will glean concrete ideas about how to modify healthcare and self care to improve outcomes and reverse the downward spiral of compounding health issues too often associated with HSD/EDS.

417 pages

Published January 1, 2023

Reviews

[Zoë Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a PTA with hEDS and company, this not only serves as a comprehensive review of signs, symptoms and systemic involvement for me as an individual navigating the diagnosis, but as a clinician as well who helps others do the same. I keep it in my treatment room and often share with other therapists and patients, both find it very accessible and informative. Thank you for publishing something that aids in continuing to spread awareness on Zebras 🦓