Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

What if your dental history held the key to a complex diagnosis no one’s caught? In this gripping episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Audrey Kershaw, a trailblazing oral surgeon who’s uncovered hundreds of hidden Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) cases—starting in the dental chair. From patients who “can’t numb up,” to decades-long battles with halitosis, gum fragility, and jaw instability, Dr. Kershaw shares the subtle (and sometimes shocking) signs that suggest something far deeper is at play. Together, they explore what happens when TMD, failed anesthesia, slow healing, and even bad breath point to connective tissue disorders that most dentists never learn about. If your mouth has always felt... different—this episode might explain why. Find the episode transcript here. Takeaways: Some patients can’t numb up… and the reason may change how you see your entire body. Your wisdom tooth extraction might’ve revealed more than just a dental issue. That persistent jaw pain? It may be pointing to something systemic. A 40-year case of bad breath led to an unexpected diagnosis—here’s what happened. You might be able to spot a connective tissue disorder… before a dentist even says a word. Reference Links: GIRFT RCS TMD full document. https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/FDS/Comprehensive-guideline-Management-of-painful-Temporomandibular-disorder-in-adults-March-2024.pdf   GITFT RCS TMD patient summary document. https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/FDS/TMD-Patient-support-document-March-2024.pdf   GIRFT RCS TMD Clinician summary document https://www.rcseng.ac.uk/-/media/FDS/TMD-Clinician-summary-document-March-2024.pdf   Scottish Dental Magazine article EDS Article  Scottish_Dental_magazine_October_2023 p38-39[77].pdf   BISOM link to mouth ulcers https://bisom.org.uk/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/RAS-PIL-October-2019.pdf   LA paper 2019 https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6834718/   Link to pt EDS email EDS PATIENT EMAIL April 2025.docx   Link to "Perioperative Management of Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes" by Drs. Chopra and Bluestein https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=97524 Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/. Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them. Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/. YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Audrey Kershaw: Website: https://www.oralsurgery.scot/ Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if the very things you do to feel or look better are quietly making you worse? In this solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein answers listener questions—but what begins as a practical Q&A quickly dives into rarely discussed truths about cosmetic procedures, EMFs, neuroinflammation, and even fragrances as dangerous triggers.You’ll hear surprising stories from patients who’ve suffered unexpected complications—and discover how seemingly harmless habits, like party tricks or perfume, could be tipping the scale toward long-term damage. Plus, Dr. Bluestein unpacks the case for renaming MCAS, the underrecognized connection between transness and hypermobility, and why your surgeon might not be as EDS-aware as they claim.If you think you’ve already heard it all about EDS, MCAS, and chronic illness—you haven’t heard this.Takeaways:A harmless beauty treatment… until it’s not. Learn what no one tells you about EDS and cosmetic procedures.What if your MRI looks “normal”—but your spine is screaming otherwise?Think party tricks are just for fun? Your joints might not agree.One invisible environmental trigger may be silently wrecking your nervous system.Even your surgeon might not know this one crucial detail—unless you ask the right question.Find the transcript for this episode here.Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.comPodcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.comYOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcastTwitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLindaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymdFacebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcastBlog: hypermobilitymd.com/blogPart of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when illness hijacks your love story? In this raw and revealing episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with therapists and real-life couple Melissa Dickinson and Tom Query, who know firsthand how Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can test—and transform—a relationship.From secret diagnoses to unexpected intimacy challenges, they open up about their personal journey navigating chronic illness, caregiving, trauma, and neurodivergence while maintaining connection, humor, and purpose.But it doesn’t stop there. You’ll hear about the surgery that changed everything, a community built from the ground up, and what it means to reclaim agency in a body that feels like it’s working against you. Whether you're chronically ill, caregiving, or just curious—this episode will stay with you.Takeaways: What if the love of your life was diagnosed after your wedding… would you stay? This surgery gave her legs—and her life—back. They gave their illness a name… and it changed how they fought it. The hardest part of caregiving isn’t what you think. Sometimes, even therapists need help decoding each other. Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Find the episode transcript here.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Learn about Melissa Dickinson & Tom Query:Melissa:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/melissadickinsonEDSofGA/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadickinsonlpc/Website: www.MelissaDickinson.comTom:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wellspringcounselingintownWebsite: https://www.tomquery.comKeep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcastTwitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLindaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymdFacebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcastBlog: hypermobilitymd.com/blogLearn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.comPodcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.comPart of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dr. Brayden P. Yellman, Medical Director at the Bateman Horne Center, sheds light on the often-misunderstood ME-CFS, exploring its elusive nature and the toll it takes on daily life. They discuss how fatigue can be a complex physiological state rather than simple tiredness, the hidden dangers of upright posture, and how traditional diagnostics can overlook critical nervous system issues. Yellman also delves into emerging theories about the condition, including brainstem tension and mast cell activation, offering hope for those seeking answers to their unexplained symptoms.

What if the symptoms you've been chasing—brain fog, fatigue, bladder pain, even anxiety—were all connected by one overlooked cell type? In this fascinating episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein is joined by Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, one of the world’s leading experts on mast cells, to unravel the hidden roles they play in some of the most complex chronic illnesses.From histamine sensitivity that mimics allergies, to lab tests that miss what’s really going on, Dr. Theoharides sheds light on why so many patients are dismissed—and what doctors are missing. The conversation takes unexpected turns into brain inflammation, food triggers, and even autism, where mast cells may hold untapped insight into neurodevelopment and behavior.If you've ever felt like your symptoms don’t make sense—or that the medical system keeps overlooking something obvious—this episode might just connect the dots.Takeaways:You might be surprised to learn which test isn’t as useful for diagnosing MCAS as people think.The brain fog you're feeling? There's a cellular player involved—and it's not just inflammation.Some reactions you're calling “allergies” might be something very different (and trickier to detect).The way mast cells interact with the brain could change how we think about neurodevelopment.A few supplements could help—but only if you're asking the right questions first.Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Mast Cells and Guest Introduction02:57 Understanding Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)10:35 Diagnostic Challenges and Lab Tests for MCAS32:12 Mast Cells in the Brain and Neuroinflammation44:00 Understanding Mast Cell Activation and Stress46:06 The Role of Diet and Supplements in Managing Mast Cell Activation55:42 Gut Health and Mast Cell Activation01:01:51 Practical Tips and Future DirectionsFind the transcript for this episode here.Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Learn about Dr. Theoharis TheoharidesWebsite: https://www.drtheoharides.com/Podcast Link: https://algonot.com/Blogs: https://www.nova.edu/nim/neuroinflammation-research/index.htmlLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theoharis-theoharides-ms-phd-md-faaaai-67123735Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcastTwitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLindaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymdFacebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcastBlog: hypermobilitymd.com/blogLearn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.comPodcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.comPart of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this solo Q&A episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein answers your biggest hypermobility questions, tackling topics like whether getting an official EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes) diagnosis is worth it, which pain medications actually help, how to improve posture, and the growing stigma around EDS. She also discusses visceroptosis (organ prolapse), posture braces, and the legalities of medical centers refusing EDS patients. Dr. Bluestein shares practical hypermobility hacks and gives insight into the challenges patients face when seeking care. If you’ve ever wondered how to advocate for yourself, manage pain, or improve daily function, this episode is packed with expert advice and actionable tips.Takeaways:Should You Get an EDS Diagnosis? – Listen as Dr. Bluestein describes how an official diagnosis can provide validation and access to specialists, yet may also lead to insurance and medical stigma issues.  Pain Medications for EDS Are Off-Label – Dr. Bluestein explains which medications she has found most helpful for managing symptoms.How Can Posture Be Improved – Dr. Bluestein shares which posture-support garments she prefers and how to use them in a way to avoid muscle weakening.EDS Stigma is Getting Worse – Misinformation causes some doctors to dismiss EDS patients as exaggerating or attention-seeking. Learn how to advocate and educate your providers.Some Medical Centers Refuse EDS Patients – While emergency rooms must treat everyone, clinics and specialists can decline to see EDS patients, making self-advocacy and persistence essential. Listen in to hear how you can avoid having this happen to you.  Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Find the episode transcript here.Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcastTwitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLindaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymdFacebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcastBlog: hypermobilitymd.com/blogLearn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.comPodcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com Part of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Petra Klinge, a renowned neurosurgeon specializing in tethered cord syndrome (TCS), Chiari malformation, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders. They dive deep into occult tethered cord syndrome, a condition where MRI scans appear normal, yet patients still experience neurological symptoms, chronic pain, and bladder/bowel dysfunction. Dr. Klinge explains how tethered cord affects EDS patients, the role of connective tissue disorders, and what makes someone a good candidate for surgery. Whether you’ve been struggling with undiagnosed spinal issues or are considering tethered cord release surgery, this episode is packed with valuable insights and cutting-edge research.Takeaways:Tethered Cord Can Be “Occult” (Hidden on MRI) – Many patients with classic tethered cord symptoms are dismissed because their MRI appears “normal.” A clinical diagnosis is key.EDS Patients Are at Higher Risk – Changes in collagen and the extracellular matrix make individuals with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome more prone to tethered cord syndrome, which can be congenital or acquired.Tethered Cord Syndrome Affects the Entire Spine – While traditionally thought to impact only the lower body, new research suggests TCS can cause upper body pain, weakness, and neurological dysfunction.Surgery Isn’t Always the First Step – Physical therapy, craniosacral therapy, and manual techniques may help some patients, but progressive neurological decline may require surgical release.Retethering is Possible After Surgery – Around 7% of patients may need a second surgery due to scar tissue reattaching the spinal cord, but new surgical techniques are improving long-term outcomes.Articles referenced in the episode:https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38489815/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38202013/https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35307588/Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Find the episode transcript here.Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.comPodcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.comYOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Learn about Dr. Petra KlingeWebsite: https://www.brownhealth.org/providers/petra-m-klinge-md-phdKeep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcastTwitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLindaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymdFacebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcastBlog: hypermobilitymd.com/blogPart of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. David Kaufman, a specialist in complex illnesses, to discuss how infections, immune dysfunction, and connective tissue disorders intersect. They explore why many chronic illnesses are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This includes conditions like ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyeltiis/chronic fatigue syndrome), Long COVID, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia, Dr. Kaufman shares insights on the role of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), Lyme Disease, small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO), and other infections in triggering chronic conditions. They also dive into peptides, plasmapheresis, exosomes, and mitochondrial health as potential treatment avenues. If you've struggled to get answers about complex illness, this episode is packed with groundbreaking insights and expert advice.Takeaways:Complex Illness Requires a Multi-System Approach – Chronic conditions like ME/CFS, EDS, MCAS, and dysautonomia are interconnected, requiring a holistic approach rather than isolated treatments.Infections Can Trigger or Worsen Chronic Illness – Epstein-Barr virus, Lyme disease, and other chronic infections often reactivate in immune-compromised individuals, leading to long-term symptoms.Peptides and Exosomes Show Promise – Treatments like thymosin alpha-1, BPC-157, and exosomes may help modulate immune function and promote healing.Pelvic Congestion & Blood Flow Issues Matter – Unrecognized vascular issues, like May-Thurner syndrome and pelvic congestion syndrome, can contribute to POTS and hemodynamic instability.Mitochondrial Health is Key to Recovery – Addressing mitochondrial dysfunction through targeted therapies can help reduce fatigue and improve overall health in complex illness patients.Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Thank YOU so much for tuning in. We hope you found this episode informative, inspiring, useful, validating, and enjoyable. Join us on the next episode for YOUR time to level up your knowledge about hypermobility disorders and the people who have them.Find this episode's transcript here.Join YOUR Bendy Bodies community at https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/.Learn more about Human Content at http://www.human-content.comPodcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.comYOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Learn about  Dr. David KaufmanBlue Sky: @kaufmanmd.bsky.socialWebsite: https://www.centerforcomplexdiseases.com/Podcast Link: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkJiyBgDrgE5xWi3_tFsXHgKeep up to date with the HypermobilityMD:YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcastTwitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLindaLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymdFacebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcastBlog: hypermobilitymd.com/blogPart of the Human Content Podcast Network Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Explore the fascinating world of hormones and their impact on joint health. Learn how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone influence connective tissue and why menopause can worsen EDS symptoms. Delve into the nuances of hormone replacement therapy and its potential benefits and risks, especially with testosterone. Exercise caution when choosing hormone clinics, as some may prioritize profit over patient care. This discussion offers valuable insights into managing hormones for better health and wellness.

Dr. Kara Wada, an allergy and immunology expert specializing in autoimmune conditions like Sjogren's disease, discusses the often-misunderstood Sjogren’s disease. She explains its underdiagnosis rates, citing that up to 75% remain undiagnosed due to varied symptoms beyond dryness. The conversation dives into its connections to EDS, POTS, and MCAS, addressing diagnostic challenges and emerging treatments. Dr. Wada also shares insights on nutrition strategies and the importance of patient advocacy while spotlighting the role of inflammation in fatigue and pain.