Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

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.

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