Afleveringen

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley, physical therapist and author of 'Yoga for Bendy People,' talks with guest Dena Mellick, a barbell coach and founder of Strength Equity. 
     
    Dena shares her journey from chronic illness and pain management to becoming a strength coach. They delve into the intricacies of training clients with hypermobility syndromes (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), emphasizing the importance of resistance training and collaborative approaches for managing pain and improving quality of life.
     
    Dena explains the benefits of strength training, particularly in combating age-related muscle loss, and offers practical tips for finding the right coach, avoiding common red flags, and accommodating individual needs. They also discuss the significance of progressive overload, appropriate equipment, and the critical role of protein in muscle recovery and maintenance.
     
    Highlights of this episode include: 
     
    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks
    00:35 Meet Dena Mellick: Strength Coach and Lifter
    01:47 Dena's Journey to Lifting
    03:30 The Importance of Strength Training
    06:19 Powerlifting and Olympic Lifting Explained
    09:04 Training Hypermobile Clients
    16:26 Finding the Right Coach or Trainer
    19:46 Resources for Training with Pain
    22:30 Training with Hand Injuries
    23:26 Green Flags in a Strength Coach
    23:50 Red Flags to Avoid in a Coach
    25:07 Importance of Proper Equipment
    28:32 Personal Experiences with Coaching
    30:08 One-on-One vs Group Training
    32:25 Adapting Training to Life Stressors
    35:17 Encouraging Barbell Use at Home
    38:12 Getting Started with Resistance Training
    40:43 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, Dr. Libby Hinsley hosts Dr. Derik Anderson, a chiropractor and expert in soft tissue research and treatment, to discuss various facets of managing hypermobility syndromes.
     
    Dr. Anderson shares his journey into treating Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, insights on fascia differences in bendy bodies, and the role of heart rate variability (HRV) in energy management. They also delve into the importance of joint stabilization, nutrition, and innovative approaches like vibration therapy to improve the quality of life for those with hypermobility.
     
    The episode emphasizes the significance of a holistic and individualized approach to care, reflecting on the need for managing systemic inflammation and energy levels to enhance recovery and overall health.
     
    Highlights of this episode include:
     
    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks
    00:40 Meet Dr. Derik Anderson
    01:34 Dr. Anderson's Journey with EDS
    05:40 Understanding Fascia in Bendy Bodies
    16:23 Heart Rate Variability and Energy Management
    28:08 Tools and Techniques for Fascia and Muscle Health
    34:40 Nutritional Insights for Bendy Bodies
    36:51 Conclusion and Contact Information

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  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley speaks with Rob West, a physical therapist and board certified orthopedic specialist. They discuss the use of blood flow restriction (BFR) training as a tool for improving strength and managing symptoms in patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).
     
    Rob shares his journey from learning about EDS through a classmate to becoming a specialist in treating this population. He provides insights into how BFR works, its benefits, and necessary precautions. Rob also highlights the positive impact BFR and trunk compression with weightlifting belts can have on cerebral perfusion and symptom management for POTS patients. Additionally, he shares inspiring case studies of patients who have significantly improved their quality of life through these training methods. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of these innovative approaches to physical therapy and their practical applications.
     
    Highlights of this episode include:
     
    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks
    00:35 Meet Rob West: Physical Therapist and Strength Specialist
    02:58 Understanding Blood Flow Restriction Training
    05:37 Applying BFR in Clinical Practice
    08:29 BFR for POTS Management
    27:22 Patient Success Stories with BFR
    31:15 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, Libby welcomes Dr. David Saperstein, Director of the Center for Complex Neurology, EDS, and POTS in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Saperstein shares his journey into specializing in EDS and POTS, the complexities of diagnosing and treating POTS, and the importance of staying curious and open-minded in medical practice.
     
    They discuss the challenges of diagnosing POTS, the importance of thorough testing, and various treatment strategies, including the critical role of salt and water intake. Dr. Saperstein also emphasizes the need for flexibility in treatment plans to better meet individual patient needs. Tune in to gain valuable insights into managing these complex conditions and hear about Dr. Saperstein's innovative approaches.
     
    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks
    00:35 Meet Dr. David Saperstein
    01:45 Dr. Saperstein's Journey into EDS and POTS
    03:47 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating POTS
    10:00 Understanding POTS and Its Complexities
    18:29 Diagnostic Criteria and Testing for POTS
    31:06 Treatment Strategies for POTS
    36:54 Managing POTS with Lifestyle Changes
    41:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, Dr. Libby Hinsley hosts biomechanist and bestselling author Katy Bowman to discuss the unique features of hypermobile bodies. Katy shares her insights on biomechanics, tissue creep, and the importance of proprioception and attentional focus for hypermobile bodies.

    They also explore the impact of sedentary culture and strategies for integrating more diverse movements into daily life. Katie explains her evolutionary perspective on movement and emphasizes the need for hypermobile individuals to engage in movement that enhances body awareness and stability.

    Practical tips, theoretical insights, and Katie's innovative approach to movement therapy make this a must-listen for those living with hypermobility.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:35 Meet Katie Bowman: Biomechanist and Movement Expert 01:56 Understanding Biomechanics and Hypermobility 09:40 The Impact of Sedentary Culture on Hypermobility 17:17 Practical Tips for Managing Hypermobility 22:15 The Psychological Aspect of Movement 34:00 Final Thoughts and Resources
  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley is joined by strength and conditioning coach Becca Lee to discuss their collborative innovative strength training class 'Bendy and Badass,' designed specifically for people with hypermobility syndromes.

    They share their journey in developing the class, discuss the unique challenges faced by hypermobile individuals, and explain effective strategies and exercises used to help participants build strength and improve quality of life. The conversation also highlights the importance of slow, controlled movements, personalized programming, and the significance of community support within the class setting.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:35 Meet Becca Lee: Strength and Conditioning Coach

    01:03 The Journey to Bendy and Badass

    01:23 Becca's Coaching Philosophy

    03:28 Libby's Personal Training Experience

    12:59 The Birth of Bendy and Badass Class

    14:23 Class Structure and Community Impact

    16:14 Exercise Selection and Programming

    23:10 Dumbbells and Progressive Loading

    23:34 Four-Week Programming Cycle

    28:36 Importance of Slow and Controlled Movements

    34:11 Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE)

    40:57 Community and Individual Progress

    46:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley is joined by Dr. Kate Bochnewetch, a physical therapist and run coach, to discuss running with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD), and other chronic illnesses.
     
    Kate shares her personal journey with hypermobility, POTS, and chronic migraine, and how these experiences influenced her approach to training runners with similar conditions. Topics covered include the importance of a gentle, conservative, and health-focused training plan, the role of strength training, managing stress, and the selection of appropriate footwear.
     
    Kate also offers insights into pacing and mental preparedness, emphasizing the need for individualized care and flexibility in exercise routines. Listeners interested in learning more about Kate's work can find her on Instagram at @the_running_dpt or visit her website at therunningdpt.com.
     
    Highlights of this episode include:
     
    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks
    00:35 Meet Kate Bognawicz: Physical Therapist and Coach
    01:36 Kate's Journey with Hypermobility
    03:30 Challenges in Traditional PT Practice
    06:34 Approach to Running Training for EDS/HSD
    08:20 Indicators for Running Readiness
    10:07 Debunking Myths About Running with EDS/HSD
    14:31 Strength Training for Joint Stability
    16:51 Running Progression Timeline
    22:04 Managing POTS in Running Training
    24:14 Footwear Recommendations
    27:08 Run-Walk Approach and Stress Management
    32:18 Conclusion and Contact Information

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Nikki Naab-Levy, a certified strength and nutrition coach with extensive experience in helping hypermobile individuals.

    Nikki shares her personal journey with hypermobility and discusses the benefits of strength training for those with hypermobility syndromes. They explore the importance of understanding one's limits, the concept of rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and how to adjust training programs appropriately. The conversation also touches on the significance of proper nutrition and body autonomy. Listeners are provided with practical advice on how to approach strength training safely and effectively, even when dealing with chronic conditions.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks

    00:35 Meet Nikki Naab-Levy

    01:29 Nikki's Personal Journey with Hypermobility

    04:16 The Benefits of Strength Training for Hypermobile People

    04:40 Understanding 'Heavy' in Strength Training

    06:43 Approach to Strength Training for Hypermobile Individuals

    15:53 Progressing in Strength Training

    23:52 The Importance of Deloading

    25:11 The Importance of Deload Weeks

    25:45 Listening to Your Body's Cues

    27:52 Adjusting Workouts for Hypermobility

    31:39 Indicators for Slowing Down

    32:13 Mental Strategies for Setbacks

    37:11 Nutrition and Recovery for Hypermobility

    40:30 The Role of Alignment and Load

    46:41 Final Thoughts on Body Autonomy

    48:32 Where to Find More Information

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley talks with Dr. Mamak Shakib, a chiropractic physician specializing in functional mobility, joint hypermobility, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Dr. Shakib shares her 30-year journey in treating hypermobile patients, emphasizing the importance of developmental kinesiology and dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) for sustainable joint health and stability.

    She discusses common issues faced by hypermobile individuals in traditional chiropractic and rehabilitation settings, the significance of tailored approaches, and the role of proper breathing techniques in maintaining functional stability. The episode sheds light on Dr. Shakib's unique methodologies and her advocacy for better communication and understanding between healthcare providers and patients with hypermobility syndromes.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks

    00:35 Meet Dr. Mamak Shakib

    01:58 Discovering Hypermobility

    07:23 Challenges in Traditional Rehabilitation

    20:55 Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS)

    34:05 Breathing Techniques for Bendy People

    45:45 Final Thoughts and Resources

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Dr. Melissa Koehl to discuss her journey with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and how it has shaped her career in physical therapy.

    Melissa shares her personal struggles with diagnosis, the importance of recognizing hypermobility in the context of fibromyalgia, and the intersection of these conditions with other systemic issues like dysautonomia and mast cell activation syndrome. She also discusses the significance of personalized exercise programs, gut health, and the holistic approaches necessary to manage these complex conditions effectively.

    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks

    00:35 Meet Melissa Kahle: A Journey with Hypermobile EDS

    01:40 Melissa's Personal and Professional Journey

    03:35 The Diagnosis and Its Impact

    06:19 Exploring Fibromyalgia and Hypermobility

    06:48 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Diagnosis and Criteria

    12:04 Treatment Approaches for Fibromyalgia

    16:13 Exercise and Movement Strategies

    22:35 Exploring Mast Cells and Fibromyalgia

    24:28 The Gut Microbiome and Pain Connection

    24:53 Personal Struggles with SIBO

    29:20 Navigating Healthcare as a Hypermobile Human

    31:59 Creating Resources for the Hypermobile Community

    37:33 Final Thoughts and Resources

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Dr. Jessica Eccles, a prominent consultant psychiatrist and researcher, to discuss her personal and professional experiences with hypermobility syndromes. Dr. Eccles shares insights from her extensive research on the links between hypermobility, anxiety, neurodevelopmental conditions, and chronic health issues such as fibromyalgia and ME/CFS. She explains how differences in brain structure and function, along with abnormal autonomic nervous system responses, can affect those with hypermobility. Dr. Eccles also introduces a novel treatment approach, the ADAPT therapy, designed to reduce anxiety in hypermobile individuals. The conversation highlights the importance of proper diagnosis, medical education, and innovative therapeutic strategies for managing these complex conditions.

    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks

    00:35 Meet Dr. Jessica Echols

    01:34 Dr. Echols' Personal Journey with Hypermobility

    04:00 Discovering the Link Between Hypermobility and Anxiety

    08:50 Exploring Brain Differences in Hypermobile Individuals

    11:00 The Role of the Involuntary Nervous System

    17:02 Novel Treatments and Future Research

    21:05 Connections Between Hypermobility and Neurodivergence

    35:45 Challenges and Future Directions in Medical Education

    39:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • If you have a bendy neck, this one's for you!

    For this week's episode of Zebra Talks, Libby has a fascinating conversation with Taylor Goldberg, a chiropractor turned virtual hypermobility coach. Taylor shares a bit about her personal journey with hypermobility and her shift to a virtual coaching model, and then helps us understand all things upper cervical instability (UCI), including its causes, symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options. UCI affects a whole lot of people with hypermobility, but good news: the most severe cases requiring surgery are quite rare even among us bendy types. Whew!

    Taylor unpacks a lot of definitions such as distinguishing between hypermobility and instability (no, they're not the same thing!). She also covers lots of good info about safe exercise practices, and emphasizes why it's so important to avoid certain chiropractic adjustments. The episode also touches on yoga practices for hypermobile individuals and the significance of conservative care in managing UCI.Highlights of this episode include:00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks00:35 Meet Taylor Goldberg: Chiropractor to Hypermobility Coach01:49 Taylor's Personal Journey with Hypermobility03:40 Understanding Hypermobility and Instability06:11 Upper Cervical Instability: Symptoms and Diagnosis14:42 Managing Upper Cervical Instability19:01 Activities to Avoid and Chiropractic Cautions24:12 Challenges in Chiropractic and PT Training25:23 The Need for Comprehensive Connective Tissue Education27:02 Creating Realistic Expectations in Recovery27:49 Step-by-Step Recovery Process29:39 Exercise Categories and Proprioception33:46 Managing Upper Cervical Instability35:01 Yoga and Hypermobility39:11 Resources and Offerings for Hypermobility41:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Lisa Sherman, a licensed acupuncturist with expertise in functional medicine and molecular biology, to discuss digestive issues among people with hypermobility syndromes.

    They delve into the prevalence of gastrointestinal problems like dysmotility, microbial dysbiosis, and structural droopiness that hypermobile individuals often face. Lisa offers insights on contributing factors such as the autonomic nervous system and mast cell activation, and shares practical advice for lifestyle changes, nutritional strategies, and supplements that can help manage these conditions. The episode highlights the importance of mindful eating, movement practices, and vagus nerve activation for improving gut health in hypermobile individuals.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:35 Meet Lisa Sherman: Expert on Bendy Bellies01:39 Understanding Digestive Issues in Hypermobile People02:56 Prevalence and Impact of GI Issues04:00 Common GI Conditions in the Bendy Population07:03 Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDS)08:54 The Role of the Nervous System in Digestion11:14 Hypermobile Gut and Hypomotility18:19 Testing and Treating Gut Motility Issues28:54 The Bendy, Itchy, and Dizzy Trifecta37:57 Understanding Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders39:24 Practical Tips for Gut Health43:44 The Importance of Protein and Collagen49:15 Navigating Histamine and FODMAPs56:47 Supplements and Prokinetics01:04:15 Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Lifestyle Changes01:08:53 Research and Future Directions01:10:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, Libby welcomes biomechanics expert Jules Mitchell to discuss the science of stretching and connective tissue behavior, particularly in the context of hypermobility syndromes.

    Jules provides insights from her extensive research and professional experience, addressing common misconceptions about stretching, the adaptive capabilities of connective tissue, and how people with hypermobility can safely engage in physical activities. The discussion includes the impact of mechanical tension on tissue adaptation, the importance of understanding individual responses to stretching, and the role of exercise science in improving joint stability and resilience.

    Jules, who is also the author of 'Yoga Biomechanics Stretching Redefined' and an educator of yoga teachers worldwide, shares valuable perspectives on the interplay between biomechanics and yoga practices, offering practical advice for both practitioners and instructors.

    00:35 Meet Jules Mitchell: Yoga Biomechanics Expert02:18 Jules' Journey into Stretching Research04:55 Understanding Connective Tissue and Hypermobility12:46 The Science of Stretching and Tissue Adaptation18:37 Practical Advice for Bendy People40:22 Final Thoughts and Resources

  • In this Zebra Talks episode, host Dr. Libby Hinsley interviews Alanna Trzcinski, host of the Endo Battery Podcast and president of EndoVillage. The episode delves into Alanna's journey with endometriosis, advocacy work, and the surprising intersections with hypermobility syndromes. Alanna sheds light on the challenges of living with both conditions, the importance of excision surgery for endometriosis, and the nuanced nature of these overlapping chronic illnesses. The two discuss the critical role of multidisciplinary care, the need for increased research, and the psychological aspects of managing chronic pain. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complexity of these conditions and the importance of informed, holistic care.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:35 Meet Alanna Trzcinski: Advocate for Endometriosis Awareness02:24 Alana's Personal Journey with Endometriosis05:21 Understanding Endometriosis: Definitions and Misconceptions07:25 The Overlap Between Endometriosis and Hypermobility Syndromes11:33 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Endometriosis15:18 Effective Management and Treatment Options18:54 The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care24:54 Surgical Treatments: Excision vs. Ablation31:20 Living with Endometriosis and Hypermobility34:08 Advocacy and Future Research40:39 Final Thoughts and Resources

  • This episode of Zebra Talks features a discussion with Naomi Bauer, a Doctor of Physical Therapy with personal and professional experience in treating dysautonomia and Long COVID. Hosted by Dr. Libby Hinsley, they explore the challenges and management strategies for those living with hypermobility syndromes, focusing on the overlap between long COVID, dysautonomia, and hypermobility.

    Naomi shares her journey from a healthcare professional to a patient after developing long COVID dysautonomia herself and highlights the importance of understanding personal energy management through pacing and the 50 percent rule. The conversation also addresses potential underlying connections between hypermobility and the increased risk of developing long COVID, emphasizing the significance of social support, proactive resting, and setting boundaries for energy use.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:32 Meet Naomi Bauer: A Journey from PT to Long COVID Survivor01:42 Exploring the Intersection of Long COVID and Hypermobility Syndromes01:56 Naomi's Personal Battle with Long COVID and Suspected Hypermobility05:55 The Complex World of Dysautonomia: From POTS to Long COVID14:28 The Link Between Hypermobility Syndromes and Long COVID23:47 Managing Long COVID and Hypermobility: Strategies for Recovery41:24 Concluding Thoughts and Finding Support

  • In this episode of the Zebra Talks podcast, host Libby Hinsley interviews Megan Beach Gomes, a specialized pelvic health physical therapist focusing on pelvic pain and perinatal care. She discusses her journey into specializing in pelvic health and the importance of physical therapy for pregnant and postpartum individuals, especially those dealing with hypermobility.

    Gomes highlights the key role of the hormone relaxin during pregnancy and its effects on the body's mobility, the challenges hypermobile individuals may face during and after pregnancy, and provides practical advice and exercises to help manage symptoms. Gomes emphasizes the need for comprehensive care, including pelvic support belts, specific exercises, and how to deal with issues such as diastasis recti postpartum. She also touches on finding specialized help through resources like the EDS Society, the importance of patient advocacy, and options like telehealth for individuals with limited access to specialized care.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    - Welcome to Zebra Talks: Introducing Megan Beach Gomes- Journey into Pelvic Health: Megan's Story- Understanding Hypermobility in Pregnancy- Managing Pregnancy Symptoms for the Hypermobile- Navigating Labor and Delivery with Hypermobility- Preparation and Advocacy for Hypermobile Pregnant Persons- Pregnancy Wellness Tips for the Hypermobile- Ergonomic Supports for Comfortable Sitting- Exercise Tips for Pregnancy with Increased Laxity- Hip Hinge: The Ultimate Exercise for Pregnancy- Managing Pelvic Girdle Pain with Simple Adjustments- Postpartum Considerations for the Bendy Population- Navigating Postpartum Recovery: Scar Care and Core Support- Addressing Diastasis Recti in Postpartum Recovery- Preventing and Managing Mommy Thumb Postpartum- Finding Specialized Perinatal Physical Therapy

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley discusses the intersection of hypermobility syndromes and gender affirming care with Dr. Laura Ross, a pelvic health physical therapist and sex counselor. Dr. Ross, based in Decatur, Georgia, shares her journey and passion for providing inclusive care for all genders, focusing on pelvic pain, sexual health, pelvic health in athletes, and care specific to transgender and gender expansive individuals. She emphasizes the importance of creating a safe space for LGBTQ+ patients, especially those dealing with hypermobility.

    Their conversation explores the high prevalence of hypermobility among individuals seeking gender affirming surgeries, citing research that highlights a significant connection between hypermobility and gender diversity. The conversation also covers the importance of comprehensive care that includes prehabilitation, rehabilitation, and the consideration of sensory processing issues.

    Dr. Ross stresses the necessity for healthcare providers to develop competencies in treating gender diverse individuals, suggesting resources for both patients and practitioners. The episode aims to raise awareness about the need for accessible and affirming healthcare for hypermobile and gender diverse communities.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:38 Introducing Dr. Laura Ross: A Journey into Pelvic Health and Gender Affirming Care02:24 Exploring the Intersection of Hypermobility and Gender Affirming Care04:39 Demystifying Gender Affirming Care: Terminology and Importance10:35 The Link Between Hypermobility and Gender Diversity: Emerging Research22:17 Gender Affirming Surgeries and Hypermobility: Pre and Postoperative Considerations39:19 Empowering Healthcare: Inclusivity and Competency in Gender Diverse Care45:46 Connecting with Dr. Laura Ross and Final Thoughts

  • In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley delves into the complexities of pelvic health in individuals with hypermobility syndromes with special guest Beth Kemper. Beth is a seasoned physical therapist with dual certification in Women's Health and Pelvic Health. She discusses the prevalence of hypermobility among her pelvic PT patients and the unique challenges they face.

    The conversation covers a range of pelvic-related issues, including elimination dysfunctions, pelvic organ prolapse, gynecological concerns, and pelvic pain, offering insights into their treatment. Beth emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach that includes manual therapy and retraining of the pelvic floor and related muscle groups, alongside utilizing support devices where necessary.

    Additionally, the podcast touches on the importance of proper diagnosis and the potential impact of surgeries. Listeners are encouraged to seek skilled pelvic PTs, and the episode underscores the importance of hope and proactive care in managing pelvic health for the hypermobile population.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:36 Meet Beth Kemper: A Deep Dive into Pelvic PT and Hypermobility01:23 Exploring the Prevalence and Impact of Hypermobility in Pelvic PT04:09 Unpacking Common Pelvic Issues in the Bendy Population11:58 Addressing Incontinence and Elimination Challenges13:01 Comprehensive Treatment Approaches for Pelvic Conditions18:58 The Importance of Tailored Rehabilitation for Hypermobility20:04 Exploring Supportive Devices and Surgical Considerations32:40 Finding the Right Pelvic PT: Tips and Advice37:11 Final Thoughts and Upcoming Episodes

  • This episode of Zebra Talks features Dr. Libby Hinsley, physical therapist and author, hosting Emily Rich, an occupational therapist with a focus on treating Ehlers Danlos syndromes, dysautonomia, and related conditions. The discussion begins with Emily sharing her personal journey with Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and her motivation for specializing in this field. She explains the role of occupational therapy in managing these conditions, emphasizing patient-partnered, evidence-based treatment approaches to improve daily living activities. The conversation delves into the nuances of dysautonomia, particularly Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), detailing its symptoms, diagnosis, and the three main types: neuropathic, hypovolemic, and hyperadrenergic POTS. Emily outlines the 'big five' non-pharmacological management strategies (compression, increasing blood volume, exercise/movement, managing anxiety, and sleeping on an incline) and discusses the importance of pharmaceutical management. She stresses the significance of tailored treatment plans, the potential of vagus nerve stimulation, and encourages seeking knowledgeable healthcare providers. Emily ends by highlighting resources for both patients and healthcare professionals looking to learn more about managing POTS and related conditions.

    Highlights of this episode include:

    00:33 Introducing Emily Rich: A Deep Dive into Occupational Therapy for EDS and POTS01:32 Emily's Personal Journey with Hypermobility and Career Shift02:40 The Role of Occupational Therapy in Managing Chronic Conditions03:45 Exploring Dysautonomia and POTS: Definitions and Diagnoses07:34 The Common Forms of Dysautonomia in Hypermobility Syndromes10:57 Diagnosing POTS: Techniques and Challenges11:53 Understanding the Different Types of POTS21:47 Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Managing POTS33:38 Pharmaceutical Management of POTS: A Critical Overview37:09 Innovative Treatments and the Future of POTS Management39:53 Empowering Patients and Providers: Resources and Education42:22 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Further Learning