2. Frequent Joint Dislocations: The Painful Reality of hEDS
Joint dislocations can be both alarming and immensely painful. And for someone with hEDS, this is an all-too-frequent occurrence. Unlike a sprained ankle after a misstep, those with hEDS might experience a dislocation during routine activities, like reaching for a high shelf or even turning over in bed.
Why does this happen? The very nature of hEDS is rooted in collagen abnormalities. Collagen is like the body’s glue, providing structure and strength to our tissues. But in hEDS, this collagen is somewhat flawed, leading to weaker connective tissues and, in turn, joints that easily dislocate.
It’s not just the pain of the dislocation itself but the aftermath. The surrounding muscles may spasm, further compounding the pain. Moreover, frequent dislocations can lead to early joint degeneration and arthritis. (2)
