Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, explores the impact of nutrition on joint hypermobility with Lorna Ryan, chair of the Diet and Nutrition Working Group for the Ehlers Danlos Society. Lorna shares essential advice on how to nourish the body for better pain management, improved gut health, and more energy. From the importance of fiber to balancing nutrients and understanding food sensitivities, this conversation is packed with practical tips. Lorna also shares her favorite recipes and explains how the right foods can help reduce EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) symptoms and support gut health. Whether you’re looking to ease GI symptoms, balance energy levels, or discover new dietary approaches for EDS, this episode offers valuable insights and hacks.Takeaways:Flexible Diets Work Best: There is no one-size-fits-all diet for EDS; flexible eating plans based on individual needs are more effective than rigid restrictions.Fiber is Crucial for Gut Health: Fiber is essential for a healthy gut, and those with EDS often need to reintroduce it gradually to avoid GI symptoms.Adaptability is Key in Nutrition: Lorna emphasizes adapting diets based on changing symptoms, seasons, and life circumstances, helping to better manage health outcomes.Food as Nourishment, Not Restriction: Instead of focusing on restrictions, Lorna advises seeing food as a source of nourishment that supports healing and strength.Track, Don’t Restrict: Keeping a food and symptom diary helps identify triggers without unnecessary restrictions, especially for those managing mast cell activation syndrome and dysautonomia.Connect with YOUR Bendy 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 Lorna RyanInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lornaryanhealthDiet and Nutrition Summit Information Recordings Package ($30) – The Recordings Package ticket will become available after sale of the Virtual Ticket ends, those who purchase will receive access to the on-demand content from November 3. It does not include access to the live event or our event app Whova, and will be available for 8 weeks after the event airs.Choose Your Price Access – After sale of the Recordings Package ticket ends, those who would like to access the on-demand content can purchase it on a “Choose Your Price” basis, where they are able to opt-out and access without a cost if they wish.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

Dr. Clair Francomano, a prominent expert in connective tissue disorders and Chair of the Ehlers-Danlos Society's advisory board, dives into the nuances of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) versus hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD). She highlights the complexities surrounding genetic testing, including key warning signs for clinicians and new research on biomarkers that could transform diagnosis. Francomano also discusses the interconnections between hEDS and conditions like mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), offering valuable insights for patients.

In this personal solo episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, opens up about her journey from aspiring ballet dancer to renowned hypermobility expert. Dr. Bluestein shares her struggles with joint pain, dislocations, and chronic illness, which led to her diagnosis of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Along with her personal story, Dr. Bluestein reveals the hacks and strategies that have helped her regain function, manage pain, and improve her quality of life. From practical tips to movement strategies, this episode is packed with advice on navigating hypermobility and chronic pain. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or a long-time EDS warrior, you’ll find plenty of insights and hacks to apply to your own journey.Takeaways:Personal Struggles Led to Professional Focus: Dr. Bluestein's own experiences with chronic pain, multiple surgeries, and hypermobility drove her to shift from being an anesthesiologist to becoming a hypermobility expert and advocate.Hypermobility Affects Multiple Body Systems: Dr. Bluestein's journey highlights how hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) can impact various systems in the body, including joints, gastrointestinal issues, and the nervous system.Tarlov Cyst Surgery Was a Turning Point: Dr. Bluestein's diagnosis of a Tarlov cyst and subsequent surgery gave her tremendous relief after years of pain, sparking her commitment to helping others with similar conditions.Movement is Critical for Recovery: Despite the fear of injury, Dr. Bluestein emphasizes the importance of movement for those with EDS, as it is essential for maintaining strength and preventing further dysfunction.Secrets to Living Better: Dr. Bluestein shares the approach she used to improve her own quality of life. This holistic method to help patients manage EDS and chronic pain includes movement, nutrition, psychosocial support, nutritional supplements, and medication. Connect with YOUR Bendy 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, the Hypermobility MD, reconnects with her neurosurgeon, Dr. Frank Feigenbaum, who performed her Tarlov cyst surgery in 2011. Dr. Feigenbaum, a leading expert in Tarlov cyst treatment, shares the complexities of diagnosing these cysts, how they affect the nerves, and the groundbreaking surgical techniques he developed. Dr. Bluestein reflects on her personal journey through surgery and recovery, providing listeners with a unique patient-surgeon perspective. Tune in to learn about Tarlov cyst symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and how surgery can restore quality of life.Takeaways:Tarlov Cysts Can Be Symptomatic: While often dismissed as asymptomatic, Tarlov cysts can cause severe pain and neurological symptoms by compressing surrounding nerves.Selective Nerve Blocks Are Key for Diagnosis: To confirm that Tarlov cysts are the source of symptoms, selective nerve blocks can help diagnose and plan surgical interventions.Surgery Is a Lasting Solution: Dr. Feigenbaum’s unique surgical approach, involving draining and wrapping the cysts, has shown long-term success with no cyst recurrence at the treated sites.Recovery Takes Time: Nerve healing after surgery can take weeks, months, or even years. Patience is key, as symptoms may improve gradually.The Least Invasive Approach Wins: Dr. Feigenbaum emphasizes doing as little as possible to the cysts during surgery to reduce nerve damage, offering the best chances for recovery.Connect with YOUR Bendy 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. Frank Feigenbaum:Website: https://www.frankfeigenbaum.comKeep 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 inspiring episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, interviews Adji Cissoko, principal dancer with the Lines Ballet Company. Adji shares her incredible journey of balancing natural flexibility with the strength needed to thrive in professional ballet. From dealing with injuries to discussing the importance of sleep, nutrition, and cross-training, Adji provides a glimpse into the discipline required to succeed in dance while taking care of her body. Listeners will learn valuable lessons on injury prevention, building strength, and listening to your body, straight from one of the most captivating dancers in the world.Takeaways:Strength is Essential: While flexibility came naturally to Adji, she quickly learned that building strength is crucial for controlling movement, especially in ballet. Strength allows dancers to safely showcase their flexibility without risking injury.Listening to Your Body: Adji emphasized the importance of tuning into your body to understand when to push through fatigue and when to rest, striking the right balance to avoid injury while still progressing.Sleep and Recovery Matter: Adji prioritizes sleep, often getting 9 to 10 hours per night, to allow her body to recover and stay resilient, particularly in demanding environments like high-altitude performances.Cross-Training for Dance Longevity: To maintain balance and strength, Adji incorporates Pilates, gyrotonics, and strength training into her routine, allowing her to stay in peak condition and mitigating injury risks.Flexibility Doesn’t Equal Strength: Adji learned early on that flexibility alone isn’t enough for successful dancing—building core and muscle strength is key to controlling movements and maintaining beautiful lines.Connect with YOUR Bendy 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 Adji Cissoko:Instagram: @adji_cissokoKeep 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, the Hypermobility MD, sits down with physical therapist and yoga expert Lara Heimann to uncover the hidden dangers of yoga for hypermobile individuals. As the creator of the LYT Method, Lara combines yoga with functional anatomy to ensure that movement is safe and effective for those with joint instability. Lara shares why traditional yoga practices may be putting hypermobile people at risk and offers crucial advice on how to avoid injury, build strength, and prioritize stability. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion on how to practice yoga safely with hypermobility.Takeaways: Yoga for Hypermobile People: Hypermobile individuals can benefit from yoga if they focus on stability and avoid pushing into extreme ranges of motion. Stability Over Flexibility: Building strength and stability should be prioritized over achieving deep flexibility in yoga practice. Body Awareness is Key: Proprioception and awareness of body position are essential for safe movement in yoga for hypermobile individuals. Props and Feedback: Using blocks, the wall, and other props can help provide feedback and enhance stability during practice. Finding the Right Instructor: It's crucial to find a yoga teacher who understands the unique needs of hypermobile individuals and emphasizes stability over flexibility Connect with YOUR Bendy 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 Lara Heimann:Instagram: @lara.heimannFacebook: @lara.f.heimannYoutube: @LYTMethodKeep 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 special on-site episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, sits down face to face with Dr. John Pitts! Dr. Pitts, is an expert in regenerative medicine, about cutting-edge treatments for hypermobility and chronic pain. Dr. Pitts discusses prolotherapy, protein rich plasma (PRP), and "stem cell" therapies and explains how these treatments can heal tissues and improve function without surgery. He shares insights on treating conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD), and joint instability, focusing on helping the body heal itself. Whether you’re dealing with nagging pain or seeking alternatives to surgery, this episode offers hope and practical solutions.Takeaways:Regenerative Medicine: Prolotherapy, PRP, and "stem cells" can help heal tissues and reduce pain by stimulating the body’s natural healing processes.Early Treatment: Early intervention in hypermobile joints can prevent long-term damage and the need for surgery.Safer Alternatives to Surgery: Injection-based treatments offer a less invasive and safer alternative to orthopedic surgery.PRP and Stem Cell Evidence: These treatments have been shown to improve outcomes for knee arthritis and other musculoskeletal issues.Tailored Approaches for EDS Patients: Patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome may respond better to prolotherapy and require different treatment approaches compared to non-EDS patients.Connect with YOUR Bendy 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. John Pitts:IG: @johnpittsmd & @centenoschultzclinicKeep 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 enlightening episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, is joined by renowned clinical geneticist Dr. Paldeep Atwal to delve into the complexities of genetics in hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and related conditions. Dr. Atwal explains the importance of genetic testing, the significance of variants of uncertain significance (VUSs), and the complexities of gene interactions in understanding EDS. They also explore the future of genetic research and what patients should know about genetic testing to avoid misinformation and unnecessary stress. Whether you're new to the world of EDS or looking for cutting-edge insights, this episode offers valuable guidance.Takeaways:Importance of Genetic Testing: Genetic testing can reveal rare types of Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS), even when hypermobile EDS is suspected.Understanding Genetic Variants: Variants of uncertain significance can lead to confusion, making expert interpretation crucial for proper diagnosis.Gene-Environment Interactions: Genetic variants do not work in isolation—gene-gene and gene-environment interactions play a significant role in how conditions manifest.Complexity of Genetics in EDS: The absence of a genetic marker for hypermobile EDS highlights the need for continued research into the genetic basis of the condition.Avoiding Direct-to-Consumer Pitfalls: Be cautious with direct-to-consumer genetic testing, as inaccurate results can cause unnecessary stress. Always consult a geneticist for interpretation.Connect with YOUR Bendy 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. Paldeep AtwalWebsite: https://atwalclinic.com/IG / X / FB : @atwalclinicYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCffZDBcvf-vFRsT7k9GppTQKeep 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

Dr. Linda Bluestein tackles listener questions on hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and POTS, offering essential insights on diagnosis and symptom management. Discover the importance of effective communication with healthcare providers and learn valuable pacing strategies to balance activity and rest. Hear about simple hacks for managing hypermobility-related pain, and explore how chronic illness can impact relationships. This conversation provides practical advice for anyone navigating the complexities of living with these conditions.

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, welcomes Dr. Alan Hakim, a world-renowned rheumatologist and expert in Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD). Dr. Hakim reveals for the first time something about his own health. Listen in to find out what Dr. Hakim really thinks about the Beighton Score and the 2017 hEDS Classification Criteria. He also shares when he feels genetic testing is indicated and how to interpret variants of uncertain significance (VUSs).  Takeaways:Difference Between Connective Tissue Disorders: Dr. Hakim clarifies the difference between hereditary connective tissue disorders like EDS and autoimmune connective tissue disorders such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.Evolving EDS Criteria: The 2017 classification of EDS has improved the understanding of conditions like hypermobile EDS, but there’s still ongoing research and work being done to refine the criteria. Dr. Hakim shares his thoughts on the criteria and the process. Comorbidities in EDS and HSD: Conditions such as POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and GI disorders often accompany hypermobility-related disorders, though more research is needed to establish how these comorbidities are connected.The Importance of Instability: Joint instability, rather than just hypermobility, may play a more significant role in patient symptoms, making proper diagnosis and treatment plans essential.Future of Genetic Testing: While genetic markers for hypermobile EDS have not yet been identified, significant research is underway to find biomarkers and better understand the genetic components of these disorders. Dr. Hakim shares his thoughts on when genetic testing should be performed and covers red flags for more rare types of EDS and other hereditary connective tissue disorders.  Connect with YOUR Bendy 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. Alan Hakim:Instagram: @ehlers.danlosKeep 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