Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Dr. Heather Tick, a renowned pain expert, discusses non-drug therapies for pain relief emphasizing the importance of nutrition, acupuncture, and manual therapies. She explores the impact of habits on movement, heat/cold therapies, and the role of mast cells in inflammation. Dr. Tick addresses overprescription of medications, benefits of supplements, and risks associated with interventions like steroid injections.

In this Bendy Bodies with the Hypermobility MD podcast, Susan Chalela, MPT discusses support and bracing for hypermobile joints. She shares how her personal and professional experience with joint hypermobility led her to develop the Finding Functional Foundations approach which is being taught as part of The Ehlers-Danlos Society EDS ECHO program. She emphasizes the importance of proper alignment and biomechanics in everyday activities and explains why traditional physical therapy approaches may not be effective for hypermobile patients. Susan also discusses the role of bracing and supports in providing stability and controlling motion. She explains the benefits of using different types of braces for the feet, ankles, pelvis, and neck, and emphasizes the need for proper sizing and education for both patients and physical therapists. Susan also shares her experience with durable medical equipment (DME) and provides recommendations for clinicians interested in offering bracing services. She concludes by highlighting the resources available for further education and support in the field of hypermobility. Watching this episode on YouTube is recommended since there are some graphics used. Takeaways Proper alignment and biomechanics are crucial for protecting joints and managing symptoms in hypermobile individuals. Traditional physical therapy approaches may not be effective for hypermobile patients and can even worsen symptoms. The Finding Functional Foundations approach focuses on teaching patients proper alignment and functional movement patterns. Bracing and supports can provide stability and control motion in hypermobile joints. Proper support and bracing can help manage symptoms and improve function in patients with hypermobility. Different types of braces are available for the feet, ankles, pelvis, and neck, and proper sizing is crucial for optimal support. Education and guidance are essential for both patients and physical therapists to ensure the correct use of braces and maximize their benefits. Clinicians interested in offering bracing services should consider the specific needs of their patients, stock commonly used sizes, and collaborate with DME suppliers. Chapters ➡00:00 Introduction01:22 Background and Interest in Hypermobility11:56 Neurological Interest and Stroke Recovery16:23 Traditional Physical Therapy Approaches25:24 Importance of Bracing and Supports39:18 Feet and Ankle Support40:28 Pelvis Support43:32 Neck Braces51:46 Dispensing DME and Bracing56:56 Carrying Products in the Clinic01:02:59 Final Thoughts and ResourcesConnect 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/.    YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources: Chalela Physical Therapy Institute for EDS and CCI/Cervical InstabilityBendy Bodies's Amazon PageEclipse Cervical Collar - Thuasne USAhttps://www.ehlers-danlos.com/echo/Patricia Stott, PT, DPT, ATC, CHT, CYT | MedBridgehttps://www.tamingthezebra.org/Hypermobility/Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Educational Handouts#ZebraWarriors #ZebraStrong #HSD #PhysicalTherapy #EhlersDanlos #Podcast #BendyBodiesPodcast #BendyBuddy #HypermobilityMD #Bauerfeind  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode centers around unveiling 'Taming the Zebra', a book co-authored by physical therapists, Dr. Patty Stott and Heather Purdin.  The book aims to fill a void in understanding and provide therapists with the knowledge to effectively work with patients with hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS). It covers the impact of connective tissue disorders on various body systems and provides practical tips for modifying physical therapy approaches. The book emphasizes the importance of addressing primary issues and understanding the complexity of each individual's presentation. The chapters cover topics such as modifying movement for gentle exercise, addressing deconditioning and weakness, building confidence and safe strengthening programs, finding physical therapists open to working with EDS patients, expanding the toolkit for physical therapy, and more. Takeaways The book 'Taming the Zebra' fills a void in understanding and provides physical therapists with the knowledge to effectively work with patients with HSD and EDS. The book emphasizes the importance of addressing primary issues and understanding the individualized nature of each patient's presentation. A collaborative approach between therapists and patients is essential in managing overlapping problems and setbacks. Modifying movement can allow individuals with HSD and EDS to engage in gentle exercise and maintain movement despite physical limitations. Deconditioning and weakness are common issues for individuals with HSD and EDS, and addressing these problems requires a comprehensive approach that considers the underlying causes and individual goals. Physical therapists should approach treatment with intention, focusing on building confidence and creating safe strengthening programs tailored to the individual's needs. Expanding the toolkit of physical therapy techniques, such as neural rehabilitation and manual therapies, can improve outcomes for individuals with HSD and EDS. Chapters ➡00:00 Introduction and Background01:58 Motivation for Writing the Book03:28 Challenges in Managing EDS and HSD06:08 Different Types of Hypermobility and Connective Tissue Disorders07:35 Approaching Physical Therapy for EDS and HSD09:21 Primary Treatment Approach and Identifying Key Issues21:04 Approaching Physical Therapy with Overlapping Problems22:48 Non-Linear Path of Physical Therapy31:01 Modifying Movement for Gentle Exercise31:21 Addressing Deconditioning and Weakness35:13 Neural Rehabilitation and Muscle Firing36:09 Steps to Successful Strengthening40:18 Expanding the Toolkit for Physical Therapy43:13 Approaching Stabilization and Alignment56:32 Hypermobility HacksConnect 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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources:  Virtual book event sign uphttps://www.tamingthezebra.orghttp://www.elevationwellness.co/www.goodhealthphysicaltherapy.com/clinic-staff/www.medbridge.com/heather-purdin-physical-therapyhttps://www.olagrimsby.com/courses-page/https://www.naiomt.comhttps://feldenkrais.comhttps://counterstrain.comhttps://frequencyspecific.comhttps://pt.wustl.edu/education/movement-system-impairment-syndromes-courses/where-in-the-world-is-shirley-sahrmann/#ZebraWarriors #ZebraStrong #HSD #PhysicalTherapy #EhlersDanlos #Podcast #TamingTheZebra#BendyBodiesPodcast #BendyBuddy #HypermobilityMD  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this Bendy Bodies podcast episode, Dr. Lillian Holm discusses effective physical therapy for EDS and HSD and the importance of correcting function to achieve pain relief and tolerance for exercise. She explains why physical therapy may not always lead to the expected outcome, emphasizing the need for specialized therapists and individualized treatment. She addresses common misconceptions about physical therapy and highlights the importance of communication and realistic expectations. Dr. Linda Bluestein and Dr. Holm cover topics such as progress and setbacks, balancing stretching with strengthening, starting to walk again after severe limitations, physical therapy for scoliosis, and helpful resources and information. Dr. Holm also shares her favorite hypermobility hacks to help individuals stay motivated and achieve their goals.Takeaways Physical therapy can be highly beneficial for symptomatic joint hypermobility, providing pain relief and improving function. Finding a specialized physical therapist with expertise in hypermobility conditions is crucial for successful treatment. Misconceptions about physical therapy, such as the belief that it should be painful, can hinder progress. Individualized treatment plans and gradual progression are key to achieving the best outcomes in physical therapy. Open communication with the physical therapist and realistic expectations are essential for success. Chapters ➡00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lillian Holm01:15 What can physical therapy do for people with symptomatic joint hypermobility?04:19 Reasons why physical therapy may not lead to expected outcomes09:09 How to find the best possible physical therapist for EDS and HSD11:58 Misconceptions about physical therapy for joint hypermobility21:25 Approach for people who don't like to exercise25:41 Resetting the boom and bust cycle35:23 Metrics for measuring success in physical therapy50:18 Progress and Setbacks52:47 Balancing Stretching with Strengthening56:22 Starting to Walk Again58:12 Physical Therapy for Scoliosis01:01:04 Resources and Information01:02:23 Hypermobility HacksConnect 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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources:  Learn more about guest, Dr. Lilian Holm:https://www.lilianholm.com/https://www.instagram.com/hypermobilitydoctor/https://www.facebook.com/HypermobilityDRead her guest blog post for the Hypermobility MD website:https://www.hypermobilitymd.com/post/hypermobile-five-principles-to-make-physical-therapy-work-for-you#RareDiseaseDay #ZebraWarriors #ZebraStrong #HSD #PhysicalTherapy #EhlersDanlos #HypermobilityDoctor #Podcast#BendyBodiesPodcast #BendyBuddy #HypermobilityMD  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein and Corinne McLees discuss hand problems in EDS including pain, weakness, and injuries.  This conversation covers various topics related to hand problems, including ring splints, hand exercises, avoiding strain and hyperextension, tips for traveling, challenges of the medical system for chronic pain, hand pain with writing, hand pain and numbness in sleep, thumb pain and De Quervain's tendonitis, cubital tunnel syndrome, TFCC tear, trigger finger and so much  more. Takeaways Hand pain, weakness, and injuries are common in individuals with joint hypermobility. Hand pain in connective tissue disorders can be caused by hypermobility, subluxations, nerve impingement, and arthritis. TheraPutty is a useful tool for strengthening hands.  Low profile hand support options include kinesio tape, silicone thumb supports, and the Push MetaGrip. Traditional therapies may not work for hand pain in hypermobility if the underlying hypermobility is not addressed. Ring splints can provide support and stability for hypermobile joints in the hands. Insurance coverage for ring splints may vary, and Silver Ring Splints is a US-based provider that offers insurance coverage options.  Trigger finger occurs when the tissue surrounding a tendon becomes knotted, causing the tendon to catch and lock when the finger is flexed. Steroid injections combined with splinting can be effective in treating trigger finger, especially in acute cases. Trigger finger may be misdiagnosed in the hypermobile population, as it can be a result of subluxation rather than tissue accumulation. Hypermobility hacks include ergonomic hand movements, swimming, abdominal compression, and prioritizing daily movement. YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview01:38 Difference between Occupational and Physical Therapy04:44 Common Reasons for Hand Pain in Connective Tissue Disorders09:53 Approach to Hypermobility in Hands12:46 Strengthening Hands with TheraPutty20:55 Strengthening Hands without Overdoing It21:27 Reasons Traditional Therapies May Not Work for Hand Pain24:08 Low Profile Hand Support Options28:23 Ring Splints and Insurance Coverage38:34 Ring Splints and Plastic Splints40:33 Hand Exercises for Different Age Groups42:33 Avoiding Strain and Hyperextension45:21 Tips for Traveling with Hand Problems47:51 Challenges of the Medical System for Chronic Pain51:22 Hand Pain with Writing53:52 Hand Pain and Numbness in Sleep56:16 Thumb Pain and De Quervain's Tendonitis59:17 Cubital Tunnel Syndrome01:02:19 Torn Triangular Fibrocartilage Complex (TFCC)01:06:14 Decuervain's Tendonitis01:09:17 TFCC Tear01:13:32 Trigger Finger01:17:31 Differentiating Trigger Finger from Subluxation01:18:38 Pulley Injuries in Rock Climbers01:19:25 Hypermobility Misdiagnosis01:20:46 Hypermobility HacksConnect 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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources:  Learn more about guest, Corinne McLees here:https://www.handcoachcorinne.com/Check out the items mentioned in episode 91 here:https://amzn.to/49FkaGYCheck out the Bendy Bodies Amazon Shop here:https://www.amazon.com/shop/hypermobilitymdLinks to other products:https://www.silverringsplint.com/https://www.evabellejewelry.com/https://bracelab.com/metagrip.html?utm_source=Affiliate+Partnership&utm_medium=Social&utm_campaign=Corinne#HandPain #HandProblems #HandWeakness #WristPain#BendyBodiesPodcast #BendyBuddy #HypermobilityMD  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein interviews Dr. Ilene Ruhoy about causes of brain fog, as well as its relationship to various conditions such as mast cell activation syndrome, craniocervical instability, dysautonomia, and CSF leaks. She explains how these conditions contribute to cognitive dysfunction and the importance of identifying underlying causes. Dr. Ruhoy emphasizes the need for a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment approach for patients experiencing brain fog.  They delve into the role of nutrition in cognitive function, emphasizing the impact of food choices on inflammation. They highlight the importance of avoiding processed foods and sugar, increasing vegetable consumption, and improving lifestyle factors.  Dr. Ruhoy shares surprising findings on the MRI of mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) patients. YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.Takeaways Brain fog is characterized by cognitive difficulties such as slow thinking, difficulty learning and recalling information, and trouble focusing and paying attention. Conditions such as mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), craniocervical instability (CCI), dysautonomia, Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes, and CSF leaks can contribute to cognitive dysfunction and brain fog. Intracranial hypertension (high pressure), hypotension (low pressure), and Tarlov cysts can also contribute to brain fog.  Identifying the underlying causes of brain fog is crucial for developing an effective treatment plan. A comprehensive evaluation, including medical history, imaging studies, and laboratory tests, can help determine the contributing factors and guide treatment decisions. Applying knowledge gained from podcasts and research in clinical practice can help healthcare professionals provide better care to their patients. Making a meaningful difference in patients' lives is a rewarding aspect of being a healthcare professional. Nutrition plays a crucial role in cognitive function, and food choices can either be anti-inflammatory or pro-inflammatory. Avoiding processed foods and sugar, increasing vegetable consumption, and improving lifestyle factors can positively impact cognitive function. Chapters00:00 Introduction of Dr. Ilene Ruhoy01:57 Defining Brain Fog04:14 Risk Factors for Brain Fog09:42 Identifying Contributing Factors11:52 Cognitive Dysfunction and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome14:09 Cognitive Dysfunction and Craniocervical Instability18:18 Cognitive Dysfunction and CSF Leak22:59 Cognitive Dysfunction and Dysautonomia25:25 Cognitive Dysfunction and Upper Cervical Instability30:12 Cognitive Dysfunction and CSF Leak38:11 Applying Knowledge in Clinical Practice39:04 The Importance of Making a Meaningful Difference40:31 The Role of Nutrition in Cognitive Function42:38 The Impact of Food Choices on Inflammation43:44 Avoiding Processed Foods and Sugar44:38 The Role of Complex Carbohydrates and Dairy45:28 Increasing Vegetable Consumption46:44 Improving Lifestyle Factors47:09 Where to Find Dr. Ilene Ruhoy OnlineConnect 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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources:  https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/13-healing-the-brain-holistically-with-ilene-ruhoy-md-phd/https://patreon.com/unraveledpodhttps://instagram.com/ileneruhoymdphd/https://twitter.com/RuhoyMDhttps://tiktok.com/ileneruhoymdphd#BrainFog #BrainFogAwareness #BrainHealth#FunctionalMedicine #NutritionForBrainHealth #InflammationAwareness#MastCellActivationSyndrome #MCAS #CSFLeakInsights #TarlovCystAwareness #TarlovCystWarrior#BendyBodiesPodcast #BendyBuddy #HypermobilityMD  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein interviews Dr. Roger Seheult about the importance of sleep for people with chronic illness, chronic pain, and joint hypermobility.  Dr Seheult, a quadruple board-certified physician with expertise in sleep medicine, discusses various topics related to sleep, including the circadian rhythm, the impact of light on sleep, the effect of blue light on sleep, ideal bedtime, the impact of electronics on sleep, the role of melatonin, and the timing of eating and its effect on sleep.  Other topics include challenges of working from home, sleep schedules and chronic illness, shifting sleep patterns, sleep apnea and its relationship with chronic illness, sleep medications, sleep watches and monitoring devices, sleep positions and joint instability, and the importance of sleep education in medical training. Dr. Seheult provides valuable insights and recommendations for improving sleep quality and managing sleep-related issues.YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.Takeaways:Sleep is crucial for people with chronic illness, chronic pain, and joint hypermobility.Understanding the circadian rhythm is important for optimizing sleep.Light, especially blue light, can significantly impact sleep quality.The suprachiasmatic nucleus plays a key role in regulating the sleep-wake cycle.Morning light exposure is important for setting the body's internal clock.The timing of eating can affect sleep quality.Establishing a consistent sleep schedule and avoiding late-night eating can improve sleep quality.Shifting sleep patterns can be challenging, especially for individuals with chronic illness.Sleep apnea is common in individuals with chronic illness and connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes.Home sleep studies can be effective in detecting sleep apnea, but in-lab studies may be necessary for individuals at higher risk of central apnea.Sleep medications should be used cautiously due to potential side effects and dependency issues.Sleep watches and monitoring devices can provide valuable insights into sleep patterns and quality.Proper sleep positions, pillows, and mattresses can help alleviate joint instability and pain during sleep.Education on sleep disorders and their relationship with chronic illness should be improved in medical training.Patient advocacy and sharing information through podcasts can help raise awareness and improve access to sleep education.Chapters00:00 Introduction of Dr. Roger Seheult03:22 Understanding the Circadian Rhythm07:02 Impact of Light on Sleep09:20 The Suprachiasmatic Nucleus and its Role in Sleep09:49 The Importance of Light for People with Chronic Illness13:35 The Effect of Blue Light on Sleep15:28 Ideal Bedtime for Optimal Sleep17:25 The Impact of Electronics on Sleep19:26 The Role of Melatonin in Sleep20:05 The Importance of Morning Light23:29 The Timing of Eating and its Effect on Sleep24:00 Challenges of Working from Home and Small Meals25:20 Sleep Schedule and Chronic Illness28:57 Falling Asleep While Watching TV31:49 Sleep Apnea and Chronic Illness39:05 Sleep Apnea and Temporomandibular Dysfunction44:09 EDS and Central Sleep Apnea44:30 Elevating the Head of the Bed45:23 Alignment Problems and Breathing47:37 Sleep Medications and Side Effects1:00:15 Supplements for Sleep1:02:01 Sleep Watches and Monitoring Devices1:03:01 Sleep Positions and Joint Instability1:04:46 Paresthesias and Numbness in Sleep1:05:11 Pillow Recommendations for Cervical Instability1:07:35 Waking Up in Pain1:09:58 Sympathetic Nervous System Activation1:12:23 Safety of Melatonin1:14:49 Improving Education on EDS and HSDConnect 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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources:  www.medcram.comhttps://www.youtube.com/@Medcramhttps://www.optum.com/care/locations/california.htmlhttps://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6175781/https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7052958/https://www.itamar-medical.com/professionals/watchpat-300/https://youtu.be/OIwHYaDyswA?si=xSOW5miP4otLEKR6#BendyBodiesPodcast  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Professor Tiffany Lee is interviewed about service dogs and disability rights and accommodations. They discuss the Americans with Disabilities Act, the definition of disability, and disability benefits. They also explore reasonable accommodations in the workplace and education settings, as well as the challenges and advocacy involved. The conversation covers topics such as disclosing disabilities to employers and universities, getting a service dog, dealing with unresponsive disability lawyers, appealing denied disability benefits, and correcting inaccuracies in medical records. The episode provides valuable insights and guidance for individuals with disabilities navigating legal and practical aspects of their rights and accommodations. Professor Lee wanted to clarify the following points from the discussion of Social Security disability. SSI places limits on assets ($2000 for an individual) and income. SSDI does not have an asset limit but requires the recipient not be able to engage in “substantial gainful activity,” which generally acts as an income limit. There is a “Ticket to Work” program called “Choose Work” available that provides some options similar to those in the earlier “Ticket to Work” program mentioned in this episode.YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.Key points discussed: **Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA):** The conversation explores the ADA, a crucial piece of legislation that prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities and mandates reasonable accommodations.**Disability Benefits:** The episode delves into disability benefits, including the process of applying, appealing denied benefits, and addressing inaccuracies in medical records.**Workplace and Education Accommodations:** Reasonable accommodations in both workplace and education settings are explored, shedding light on the challenges and advocacy involved.**Disclosure to Employers and Universities:** Professor Tiffany Lee provides insights into the considerations and potential challenges of disclosing disabilities to employers and universities.**Service Dogs:** The episode discusses obtaining a service dog and the associated considerations.**Dealing with Disability Lawyers:** Challenges related to unresponsive disability lawyers are addressed, offering guidance on how to navigate such situations.**Financial Impact of Disability:** The limitations and financial impact of applying for disability, including asset limits and restrictions on work and income, are discussed.**Flaws in the Disability System:** Issues within the disability system, such as the poverty threshold and its impact on marriage, are highlighted.**Emergency Response Accessibility:** Making disaster and emergency response accessible to people with disabilities is discussed.Overall, the episode provides an exploration of the legal, practical, and personal aspects of disability rights and accommodations, offering valuable insights and guidance for individuals with disabilities.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Overview01:14 Americans with Disabilities Act03:28 Reasonable Accommodations in the Workplace04:38 Determining Reasonable Accommodations09:07 Accommodations in High School and College11:22 Challenges with Disability Services in Education13:59 Advocating for Accommodations in Education16:36 Disclosing Disabilities to Employers and Universities19:03 Determining Job Compatibility with Accommodations21:03 Getting a Service Dog23:37 Regulations and Considerations for Service Dog Training36:33 Dealing with Unresponsive Disability Lawyers38:07 Appealing Denied Disability Benefits40:03 Legal Recourse for Undertreatment of Pain43:07 Accommodations for Productivity Standards43:45 Correcting Inaccuracies in Medical Records47:46 Knowing When to Get an Accommodation or Apply for Disability48:36 Considerations for Applying for Disability50:23 Assets and Poverty Threshold for Disability58:58 Making Disaster and Emergency Response Accessible01:02:44 Hypermobility Hack: Walking DeskConnect 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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources:  For disability rights in general: https://www.ada.gov and https://adata.org/For service dogs: https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-2010-requirements/ and https://www.ada.gov/resources/service-animals-faqs/For disability rights in employment: https://www.dol.gov/general/topic/disability/ada and https://www.eeoc.gov/laws/guidance/your-employment-rights-individual-disabilityhttps://choosework.ssa.gov/#BendyBodiesPodcast #HealthAdvocacy #DisabilityRights #ADAInsights #AccommodationsTalk #LegalAdvocacy #ServiceDogJourney #DisabilityBenefits #WorkforceChallenges  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, psychologist Josh Spell discusses disordered eating in dance. Josh shares insights into the coping mechanisms behind eating disorders and offers advice for directors, teachers, and friends who suspect someone may be struggling with an eating disorder. YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.YOUR guest co-host is Jennifer Milner, former professional ballet and Broadway dancer and founder of Bodies In:Motion.  Takeaways Dancers, especially those with hypermobility, are at a higher risk for developing eating disorders due to the pressure to achieve a certain body image and the overlap with other mental health issues. Eating disorders are often coping mechanisms that provide a sense of control or avoidance of difficult emotions and stressors. The dance world's emphasis on perfectionism and sacrifice can contribute to the development of eating disorders. It is important for dance studios and companies to have protocols in place for addressing eating disorders and to provide support and resources for dancers. If you suspect someone may be struggling with an eating disorder, reach out to a trusted adult or professional for guidance and support. Chapters00:00 Introduction and Welcome00:30 Introducing Josh Spell01:36 Prevalence of Eating Disorders in Dancers03:09 The Relationship Between Hypermobility and Eating Disorders05:08 Understanding Eating Disorders as Coping Mechanisms08:00 The Intersection of Eating Disorders and Other Mental Health Issues10:35 The Impact of Social Media and Diet Culture on Eating Disorders13:25 Self-Image and Body Standards in the Dance World16:19 The Influence of Social Media and Zoom on Body Image20:25 Balancing Sacrifice and Suffering in the Dance World23:00 The Role of Dance Studios and Companies in Supporting Dancers' Mental Health27:13 Steps for Directors and Teachers to Take When Suspecting an Eating Disorder32:47 Steps for Friends and Loved Ones to Take When Suspecting an Eating Disorder36:31 Steps to Take If You Suspect You Have an Eating Disorder42:18 Hypermobility Hack: Giving the Eating Disorder a Persona45:12 Where to Find Josh Spell OnlineThis important conversation with Josh Spell about disordered eating in dance will leave you feeling more knowledgeable and better equipped to handle difficult situations.  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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! 🧬🔬🦓Resources mentioned during the episode:Links for show notes:https://flexiblemindcounseling.org/https://www.instagram.com/spellbound20/https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-spell-msw-licsw-07b17816/https://www.jennifer-milner.com/National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1.800.273.8255Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741; Free crisis support, anywhere in USEating Disorder Helpline: Call or text 1.800.931.2237NEDA – National Eating Disorders Association: www.nationaleatingdisorders.orgNAMI – National Alliance on Mental Illness: www.nami.orgProject Heal – https://www.theprojectheal.org/Find an Accredited Registered Dietitian (RDN) – www.eatright.org/find-an-expertFind a Therapist: www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists#Hypermobility #JointHypermobility #BalletLife #HypermobilityAware #DanceWellness #BodyPositiveBallet #HealthyDancer #BalletBodyLove #DancerTips #NutritionForDancers #EmpoweredDancer #NourishYourPassion #MindBodyBallet #BalancedDancerLife #hEDS #EhlersDanlos #HSD Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, psychologist Dr. Amanda Cassil discusses the unfair EDS journey (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes) and provides strategies for effectively communicating with healthcare providers.  Dr. Cassil provides valuable insights and tools for navigating the healthcare system and improving the quality of life for individuals with chronic illnesses. In this conversation, Dr. Amanda Cassil and Linda Bluestein, MD discuss the challenges faced by patients with hypermobility disorders (like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes) and chronic illnesses.YOUR host, as always, is Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD.Takeaways Approach advocacy from a place of compassion and understanding Regulate your nervous system and slow down to make more intentional and strategic decisions Acknowledge and process grief as a natural part of living with chronic illness Consult with trusted individuals and healthcare providers for guidance and support. Collaboration between patients and healthcare providers can be challenging due to the merging of different knowledge and experiences. Patients can advocate for themselves by asking doctors how to prioritize and address multiple symptoms and issues. Dialectical behavioral therapy (DBT) is an effective tool for nervous system and emotional regulation. Patients should remember that their medical journey is often unfair, but there are healthcare providers working to make systemic changes. Chapters00:00 Introduction01:04 Motivation for Giving the Talk at the EDS Society Global Conference04:14 Advocacy and the Challenges of the Healthcare System07:16 Approaching Advocacy without Blame10:27 Grief and Acceptance in Chronic Illness13:34 Key Takeaways from the Talk18:04 The Role of the Prefrontal Cortex in Chronic Illness19:12 Neurodiversity and Advocacy20:12 Presenting Research to Doctors23:02 Dealing with Suboptimal Experiences with Clinicians26:09 Processing Traumatic Experiences29:16 The Role of Grief in Chronic Illness36:09 Coping with Traumatic Experiences40:36 Presenting Research to Doctors (Continued)46:27 Navigating the Challenges of Collaboration48:07 Addressing Multiple Symptoms and Issues53:42 Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT) for Nervous System and Emotional Regulation59:41 Finding Your Way Through an Unfair JourneyThis important conversation with Dr. Amanda Cassil about the unfair EDS journey will leave you feeling better equipped to handle difficult medical encounters.  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/.      YOUR bendy body is our highest priority!Resources mentioned during the episode:https://www.STEMpsychology.comhttps://www.instagram.com/stempsychology/https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcassilhttps://drgabormate.com/book/the-myth-of-normal/https://www.resmaa.com/merchhttps://www.besselvanderkolk.com/#HealthJourney #ChronicIllness #ChronicPain #EhlersDanlos #HSD #JointHypermobility #HypermobileLife #MedicalGaslighting #BendyBuddy #HypermobilityMD  #BendyBodies #HealthAdvocacy #SupportPatients #PatientEmpowerment #HealthcareStruggles #WomenInStem #DisabledInStem  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices