Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

In a lively discussion, Dr. Matthew Watto, an internist and co-host of The Curbsiders podcast, shares his insights on navigating complex illnesses. He highlights the challenges of limited appointment times and the importance of patient preparedness. Dr. Watto discusses the significant gaps in internist training regarding hypermobility and chronic pain management. He emphasizes a collaborative approach between patients and doctors, advocating for comprehensive care strategies. Get ready for transformative tips on improving communication and maximizing healthcare visits!

Dr. Ilene Ruhoy, a board-certified neurologist and environmental toxicologist, dives deep into the relationship between brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome. She discusses how immune dysfunction contributes to cognitive decline, highlighting treatments such as plasmapheresis and IVIG. The complex role of histamine in brain health is explored, as well as innovative approaches in regenerative medicine for connective tissue healing. This enlightening conversation offers practical insights for managing chronic conditions.

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein chats with Dr. Kelly Casperson, a urologist and sexual health expert, about hormones, libido, and sexual wellness—especially for those with hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and related conditions. They dive into testosterone in women, hormone myths, bladder health, vaginal estrogen, and why pelvic floor therapy is a must. Dr. Casperson debunks common hormone fears, explains the role of mast cells and bladder issues, and shares insights on navigating intimacy with chronic illness. This episode is packed with must-know information on aging, sexual health, and proactive care for those with complex medical conditions.Takeaways:Testosterone is Essential for Women: Women naturally produce more testosterone than estrogen, but it's often overlooked in hormone therapy.Vaginal Estrogen is a Game-Changer: It can reduce UTIs by 50%, improve bladder health, and prevent vaginal atrophy—yet many doctors don’t discuss it.Pelvic Floor Therapy is a Must: A weak or overly tight pelvic floor can lead to pain, incontinence, and sexual dysfunction—physical therapy can help.Hormone Myths Need Busting: Misinformation from past studies has caused unnecessary fear of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)—many of those concerns are outdated.Bladder Pain is Often Misdiagnosed: Many people diagnosed with interstitial cystitis may actually have pelvic floor dysfunction, hormone imbalances, or mast cell issues.Connect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.My favorite books: https://bit.ly/3WHFQhqThank 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.Follow along with the episode 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. Kelly Casperson Instagram: @kellycaspersonmdFacebook: @youarentbrokenYouTube: @kellycaspersonmdBook: You Are Not Brokenhttps://www.amazon.com/shop/hypermobilitymd/list/2LQLPARJY3CDS?ref_=aipsflistKeep 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 speaks with sexual health experts Dr. Irwin Goldstein & Sue Goldstein. This amazing husband and wife team share insights on common issues such as vestibulodynia, libido challenges, and treatment options ranging from physical therapy to hormone therapy. They explore the often-overlooked intersection of joint hypermobility conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) with sexual dysfunction. They discuss how connective tissue disorders impact sexual health, the role of the sacral nerve in arousal and pain, and how patients can advocate for better care. Whether you're struggling with pain during intimacy or looking for solutions, this episode offers practical advice and hope.Takeaways:Connective Tissue Impacts Sexual Health: Conditions like EDS can affect the sacral nerve, leading to pain, discomfort, and sexual dysfunction that many doctors overlook.Mast Cell Dysfunction Can Trigger Pain: MCAS can cause issues such as vestibulodynia, leading to painful penetration and impacting quality of life beyond intimacy.Pelvic Floor Therapy is Essential: Specialized pelvic floor physical therapy can significantly improve sexual function and reduce pain for individuals with hypermobility disorders.Hormone Therapy May Help: Addressing hormonal imbalances, particularly testosterone and estrogen levels, can improve symptoms of vaginal dryness and pain.Communication is Key: Open conversations with partners and healthcare providers about sexual health concerns are crucial for finding the right treatments and maintaining intimacy.PS. The vestibule refers to the vulva (female external genitalia) between the labia minora (two inner skin folds that surround the vaginal opening).PSS. Neuroproliferative vestibulodynia is where there are too many nerve endings in the vestibule tissue. Check out Ep 116 with Dr Feigenbaum to learn more about Tarlov Cysts, which were discussed in this episode: https://youtu.be/Uq4OrVa6deMConnect with YOUR Hypermobility Specialist, Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD at https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/.Find Bendy Bodies episode transcripts 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. Irwin Goldstein & Sue GoldsteinFacebook: @SDSexMedYoutube: @sdsexualmedKeep 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 chats with functional medicine expert Dr. Jill Carnahan about tackling complex conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and POTS. A Breast Cancer and Crohn's disease survivor, Dr. Carnahan shares her unique approach to identifying root causes of chronic illness using functional medicine principles. They explore the triad of MCAS, EDS, and dysautonomia, and discuss tools like the limbic system, toxin reduction, and gut healing to improve patient outcomes. This episode is packed with practical insights for navigating chronic illness and optimizing your health.Takeaways:Mast Cells as the Root Driver: Dr. Carnahan explains how mast cells play a central role in triggering symptoms in EDS, POTS, and MCAS, often driven by infections, toxins, or trauma.Functional Medicine Seeks the Root Cause: A functional medicine approach looks beyond symptoms to uncover underlying triggers like mold, Lyme disease, or environmental toxins.Limbic System Reset is Critical: Addressing the limbic system through the DNRS or The Gupta Program can calm overactive mast cells and reduce overall symptom severity.Diet Plays a Vital Role: A low-histamine diet can be transformative for people with MCAS, reducing inflammation and improving gut health.Small Steps Lead to Big Changes: Healing requires incremental improvements, like reducing toxic exposure, supporting adrenal function, and improving sleep and nutrition.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/.Find the transcript here: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/mast-cells-a-hidden-trigger/#transcriptLearn 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. Jill Carnahan, MDIG: @drjillcarnahan/FB: @flatironfunctionalmedicineYT: @JillCarnahanMDBook: https://amzn.to/4gVvtibKeep 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 solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein tackles your most pressing questions about preparing for surgery with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), POTS, and MCAS. Dr. Bluestein explains how the recent IV fluid shortage may affect you, which supplements to stop before surgery, and why hydration is key for successful outcomes. She also addresses the importance of communicating with your surgeon about your unique medical needs and provides practical pre- and post-surgery hacks to optimize recovery. Packed with valuable tips, this episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating surgery with chronic conditions.Takeaways:IV Fluid Shortages Can Impact Surgery: The recent IV fluid shortage in the U.S. means patients may receive less fluid during surgery, making pre-surgery hydration even more critical, especially for those with POTS.Stop Certain Supplements Before Surgery: Supplements like ginger, garlic, ginkgo, ginseng, fish oil, turmeric, and CBD oil can increase bleeding risk and should be stopped 1-2 weeks before surgery.Talk to Your Surgeon About Medications: People with POTS or MCAS may need to adjust medications before surgery. Discuss your supplements and medications with your surgical team to avoid complications.Hydration is Essential: Going into surgery well-hydrated can make IV insertion easier and help prevent complications, especially for those with chronic illnesses like POTS.Tailor Your Pain Management Plan: Discuss post-surgery pain management with your doctor ahead of time to ensure you have appropriate medications and tools to manage pain and prevent complications like constipation.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

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with her personal physical therapist, Dr. Emily Bohan, about the often-overlooked role of pelvic floor health in people with hypermobility, EDS, and related conditions. Emily explains why pelvic floor dysfunction can cause issues like low back pain, hip instability, urinary incontinence, and constipation. She shares her expertise on how to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor safely, emphasizing why Kegels aren't always the answer. Packed with practical tips, including "stop power peeing" and incremental exercise strategies, this episode provides actionable insights to help anyone dealing with pelvic or musculoskeletal pain.Takeaways:Pelvic Floor Dysfunction Affects More Than You Think: Issues like low back pain, hip pain, constipation, and urinary incontinence can often be traced to pelvic floor tension or weakness.Kegels Aren’t Always the Solution: Many people have overly tight pelvic floor muscles, making relaxation and proper breathing more effective than strengthening exercises like Kegels.Power Peeing is a No-No: Pushing or straining during urination can harm the pelvic floor over time, increasing the risk of prolapse and dysfunction.Incremental Progress Prevents Flares: For hypermobile individuals, small, controlled increases in movement and load are key to building strength without worsening pain.Pelvic Floor Therapy Is for Everyone: Pelvic floor physical therapy benefits people of all genders and ages, from postpartum women to male athletes experiencing pelvic pain.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!Learn about Emily BohanIG: @bohanpttrainingTT: @bohanpttrainingFB: Bohan PT TrainingKeep 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 deeply meaningful episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein reconnects with her very first EDS patient, Lauren Vasko. Lauren shares her remarkable story of resilience, from navigating life in a wheelchair, managing Cranial-Cervical Instability (CCI), and battling POTS, to regaining her independence and teaching art in Kenya. She reflects on her challenges with misdiagnoses, traumatic medical experiences, and the importance of self-advocacy. Lauren reveals the tools, treatments, and mindset shifts that helped her heal, including physical therapy, medications, supplements, and setting boundaries. Her message of hope reminds us that even the hardest journeys can lead to unexpected triumphs.NOTE: Due to some technical limitations, Lauren's video will showcase lines over her frame, but it should not impact her audio or any of her amazing comments!Takeaways:Believe Healing Is Possible: Lauren emphasizes the importance of overcoming a “victim mentality” and truly believing in your ability to improve, no matter how severe your condition feels.Small Wins Add Up: Success doesn’t come all at once. Lauren highlights how small changes—5% improvements—eventually added up to transformative progress in her life.Advocate for Yourself: Lauren’s journey shows the importance of questioning medical advice, finding the right providers, and being actively involved in your care.Physical Therapy and Traction Were Game-Changers: Specialized physical therapy, dry needling, and cervical traction played key roles in helping Lauren avoid invasive surgery for CCI (Cranial-Cervical Instability).Set Boundaries for Health and Identity: Lauren shares the importance of not letting your diagnosis define you, setting boundaries with support communities, and finding joy in new passions like art and teaching.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!Learn about Lauren VaskoInstagram: @asformeandmyhealthKeep 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 speaks with leading autonomic specialist Dr. Satish Raj about POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), dysautonomia, and orthostatic intolerance. Dr. Raj delves into the complexity of these conditions, including their diverse causes, challenges in diagnosis, and innovative treatments. Learn why POTS is a "feeling faint" disorder rather than a fainting disorder, the role of compression garments and increased sodium intake, and how non-pharmacological treatments form the foundation of care. Packed with practical advice and expert insights, this episode is essential listening for anyone navigating POTS or related conditions.Takeaways:POTS is a "Feeling Faint" Disorder: Unlike fainting disorders, POTS is characterized by persistent symptoms of lightheadedness and discomfort without necessarily leading to fainting.Non-Pharmacological Treatments First: Increasing salt and water intake, wearing compression garments (focusing on the abdomen and pelvis), and engaging in tailored exercise programs form the foundation of POTS management. Dr. Raj emphasizes some key details, improving the odds of success.  Individualized Treatment Matters: Compression garments not only aid in blood flow but may also provide joint stabilization benefits for hypermobile patients.POTS is Multifactorial: The causes of POTS are diverse, ranging from post-viral onset to structural and blood volume issues, requiring a nuanced, patient-specific approach to treatment.Exercise Takes Time but Works: Low-resistance, reclined exercises like rowing and cycling can improve cardiac output and quality of life, but patients need to commit for at least six weeks to notice meaningful improvements.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!Learn about Dr. Satish RajWebsite: https://www.ehlers-danlos.com/satish-raj/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

In this informative solo episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, dives into pressing topics impacting the hypermobility community. Learn about the new anesthesia time limit policy from Anthem Blue Cross (that was then reversed), how to manage Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), understand food allergy testing, and find the best coaching options for those with complex conditions. Takeaways:New Anesthesia Policy Impacts EDS Patients: Anthem Blue Cross introduced time limits on anesthesia coverage, potentially shifting extra costs to patients if surgeries exceed these limits, making communication with providers essential. (This decision was then reversed after widespread public outcry demonstrating the importance of using our voices)MCAS Management is Personalized: Keeping a detailed symptom journal and identifying unique triggers are critical for managing mast cell activation syndrome effectively.Food Allergy Testing Limitations: Standard allergy tests may not reliably identify food triggers for those with MCAS, emphasizing the importance of symptom tracking and tailored elimination diets.Coaching vs. Medical Appointments: Coaching offers faster access and flexibility for guidance, but differs from medical services as it doesn’t include prescriptions or lab orders.Hypermobility Hacks for Surgery Prep: Stay informed about your insurance policies, maintain open communication with your healthcare team, and advocate for alternative payment or scheduling options if needed.Modifying Supplements for Surgery: Nutritional supplements that increase bleeding risk and/or interfere with medications used for anesthesia are discussed. 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