Chronic Pain and its Connection to Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can lead to early and accelerated osteoarthritis, commonly known as joint “wear and tear,” due to the instability of the joints. Alongside joint pain, patients with EDS may also experience heightened stress on the muscles, ligaments surrounding the joints, and nerve-related pain. Research has revealed that individuals with EDS often encounter issues with their pain-sensing system in the spinal cord and brain, resulting in improper functioning. Consequently, residual pain signals from a previously healed injury in EDS patients can become amplified, leading to severe disability from physical, emotional, and social standpoints.
Kyphoscoliosis: Abnormal Curvature of the Spine
Kyphoscoliosis is a condition characterized by skeletal deformities, particularly an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine. In some cases, this curvature is present at birth, known as congenital scoliosis. Over time, the curvature becomes progressively severe and is often accompanied by diminished muscle tone, a condition known as hypotonia.
Children with kyphoscoliosis may experience severe hypotonia, which can lead to delays in the development of certain motor skills. As for adults with the disorder, they may eventually lose their ability to walk by the second or third decade of life.