Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) Support in Perth (Malaga & Noranda)

Hypermobility, pain and fatigue management with tailored allied health rehabilitation

Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are connective tissue conditions that can affect joint stability, pain, fatigue, and daily function. At Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health, we provide individualised, evidence-informed rehabilitation to help you build joint support, move with more confidence, and manage symptoms in everyday life. Our focus is practical: improving function, capacity and participation at home, work, school and in the community.

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)?

Ehlers-Danlos syndromes (EDS) are a group of genetic connective tissue conditions. Different types exist, and presentation can vary widely between individuals. People may experience some combination of:

• Joint hypermobility and instability

• Frequent sprains/strains, subluxations or dislocations (in some people)

• Persistent pain and flare-ups

• Fatigue and reduced exercise tolerance

• Skin differences (varies by type)

• Difficulties with proprioception (joint position sense), balance, or coordination

Important: Diagnosis and medical management of EDS should be overseen by your GP and/or specialist team. Allied health focuses on symptom management strategies, functional rehabilitation, and participation goals.

Common symptoms and functional impacts

EDS can affect daily life in many ways. Common concerns include:

Joint instability and injury risk

• “Wobbly” joints, frequent rolling ankles, or joint giving-way

• Subluxations/dislocations in some joints

• Soft tissue pain (tendons/ligaments) and recurring injuries

Pain and flare-ups

• Persistent widespread pain or local joint pain

• Flares after activity changes or sustained positions

• Sensitivity to load and difficulty finding the “right” amount of activity

Fatigue and reduced stamina

• Reduced tolerance for work, school, or household tasks

• “Boom–bust” patterns (overdoing it on good days, crashing after)

Coordination and confidence with movement

• Reduced proprioception and body awareness

• Balance difficulties or clumsiness

• Fear of movement due to past injuries or pain

Assessment helps clarify which factors are most relevant to you and guides an appropriate plan.

How Palms can help

EDS management is most effective when it is progressive, consistent, and individualised. Our aim is to help you:

• Improve joint stability and movement control

• Build strength and endurance safely

• Reduce flare frequency and severity where possible

• Develop pacing strategies and sustainable routines

• Improve confidence and participation in meaningful activities

We do not promise a cure. We focus on practical, measurable functional goals.

Physiotherapy for EDS (joint stability and movement confidence)

Physiotherapy focuses on improving control and stability, not just stretching.

Physiotherapy may include:

• Stability and strengthening programs around symptomatic joints

• Motor control training (control through range, avoiding “hanging” on end range)

• Proprioception and balance retraining

• Gait and functional retraining (stairs, lifting, transfers)

• Education on pacing, flare planning and safe progression

• Hands-on treatment when appropriate for short-term symptom relief (as part of an active plan)

Exercise Physiology for EDS (conditioning and long-term capacity)

Exercise physiology can help build a structured, sustainable routine—especially where fatigue, deconditioning, or fear of movement are present.

Exercise physiology may include:

• Gradual strength and endurance building (often starting lower and progressing steadily)

• Gym-based programs and reconditioning when appropriate

• Low-impact options and pacing strategies

• Programs designed to support consistency without flare escalation

Occupational Therapy for EDS (daily living and independence)

Occupational therapy supports function across daily tasks, work and study demands.

OT may assist with:

• Joint protection strategies for home, school and work tasks

• Ergonomic set-up and activity modification

• Energy conservation and pacing routines

• Equipment or supports when clinically indicated (e.g., braces/splints recommendations in collaboration with other providers)

• Planning strategies for fatigue, routines and participation

Speech Pathology (only when relevant)

Speech pathology is not routinely required for EDS. It may be relevant for specific concerns such as:

• Jaw/TMJ-related communication or eating difficulties

• Voice or swallowing symptoms that require assessment and management
  If these concerns are present, we can assess functional impact and guide appropriate management or referral pathways.

Speech Therapy: https://www.palmsphysiotherapy.com.au/services/speech-therapy

Managing fatigue and flare-ups (pacing)

Many people with EDS benefit from a pacing approach:

• Build capacity gradually

• Avoid rapid increases in activity load

• Use a flare plan to adjust activity without stopping everything

• Prioritise quality sleep and recovery strategies where possible

We can help you develop a plan that works across good days and hard days.

Our Mobile Therapy Services

Please visit these other websites for further information:

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Network Australia – Provides information, resources, and support for individuals with EDS and their families.

• https://www.ehlers-danlos.com.au

The Australian Geneticist Association – Offers resources on genetic conditions, including EDS.

• https://www.aga.asn.au

Ehlers-Danlos Society – A global organization that provides support, education, and advocacy for individuals affected by EDS.

• https://ehlers-danlos.com

Rare Voices Australia – Advocates for people living with rare diseases, including EDS, providing support and resources.

• https://www.rarevoices.org.au

Chronic Pain Australia – A resource providing support and information for individuals living with chronic pain conditions, including EDS.

• https://www.chronicpainaustralia.org.au

Healthdirect Australia – Offers general information about EDS, its symptoms, and management options.

• https://www.healthdirect.gov.au

The Butterfly Foundation – Provides mental health resources for individuals dealing with chronic conditions like EDS.

• https://butterfly.org.au

The Australian Psychological Society (APS) – Information on mental health support for individuals with chronic health conditions.

• https://www.psychology.org.au

Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) – Provides guidelines and resources for exercise interventions for various health conditions.

• https://www.essa.org.au

Fibromyalgia Association Australia – Offers support and information for individuals with fibromyalgia and related connective tissue disorders.

• https://www.fibromyalgia.org.au

Important disclaimer: This webpage contains general information only and is not intended to be relied upon as personal clinical advice. While we aim to keep information accurate and up to date, it may not reflect the most current research or your individual circumstances. Palms Physiotherapy & Allied Health does not accept liability for decisions made based on this information without an individualised assessment by an appropriately qualified health professional. If you have concerns, please contact us to book an assessment or speak with your GP/medical team.