From the Research
Managing pain in Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) requires a multidisciplinary approach that includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy, and pharmacologic interventions to decrease pain, as supported by the most recent study 1.
Treatment Options
The treatment of pain in EDS should be tailored to the individual patient, taking into account the severity of their symptoms and the presence of any comorbidities.
- Medications such as acetaminophen (500-1000mg every 6 hours, not exceeding 4000mg daily) or NSAIDs like ibuprofen (400-600mg every 6-8 hours with food) can be used for mild to moderate pain, as suggested by 2.
- For more severe pain, tramadol (50-100mg every 4-6 hours) may be considered, though opioids should generally be avoided for chronic pain due to dependency risks, as noted in 3.
- Muscle relaxants such as cyclobenzaprine (5-10mg at bedtime) can help with muscle spasms, as mentioned in 4.
- Physical therapy focusing on gentle strengthening exercises and proper joint protection techniques is crucial for long-term management, as emphasized in 5.
- Patients should avoid activities that cause joint hyperextension and use braces or splints when necessary to stabilize vulnerable joints, as recommended in 2.
- Heat therapy (warm showers, heating pads) can relieve muscle tension, while cold packs help reduce inflammation during flares, as suggested in 3.
- Adequate rest, proper sleep hygiene, and stress management techniques like meditation are important as stress often exacerbates EDS pain, as noted in 4.
Multidisciplinary Approach
A multidisciplinary approach to pain management in EDS is essential, as it allows for the coordination of care among different healthcare professionals, including pain physicians, physical therapists, occupational therapists, and psychologists, as supported by 1.
- This approach can help to address the complex needs of patients with EDS, including their physical, emotional, and social well-being, as emphasized in 2.
- By working together, healthcare professionals can develop a comprehensive treatment plan that takes into account the individual patient's needs and goals, as noted in 3.
Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle modifications can also play an important role in managing pain in EDS, as suggested by 5.
- Patients should be encouraged to engage in regular exercise, such as yoga or swimming, to help improve their flexibility and strength, as recommended in 2.
- They should also be advised to avoid activities that exacerbate their symptoms, such as heavy lifting or bending, as noted in 3.
- Additionally, patients should be encouraged to practice stress-reducing techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing, to help manage their stress and anxiety, as emphasized in 4.