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A Personal and Professional Perspective on MCAS (Office Hours)
47:22

A Personal and Professional Perspective on MCAS (Office Hours)

In this candid solo episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, I share my insights into Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and its intricate connection to hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Reflecting on my personal and professional perspective and cases from my practice, I discuss how MCAS may play a pivotal role in chronic pain and offer practical strategies for identifying and managing symptoms. From my first introduction to MCAS to groundbreaking results in patient care, this episode dives deep into the science and solutions for improving quality of life with these interconnected conditions. Stick around for special hypermobility hacks and helpful resources! Takeaways: MCAS as a Root Cause: Mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS) may be the underlying driver behind many symptoms experienced by individuals with hypermobile EDS (hEDS) and POTS, emphasizing the need for targeted treatment. A Spectrum of Symptoms: MCAS presents a wide variety of symptoms, from pain and fatigue to GI and neurological issues, making it essential to approach diagnosis and management comprehensively. Therapies Can Be Life-Changing: Tailored treatments for MCAS, such as antihistamines and mast cell stabilizers, can yield dramatic improvements in quality of life when appropriately managed. Patient Advocacy is Crucial: Self-advocacy and education are vital for navigating complex conditions like MCAS, hEDS, and POTS, especially when facing medical gaslighting or misdiagnosis. Sharing Information is Empowering: Podcasts, newsletters, and community platforms are invaluable for disseminating complex medical topics like MCAS, helping patients and providers alike understand these intricate conditions. Show Correction: I said “Mast cells respond to external stimuli but they actually respond to internal and external stimuli (hormones etc) 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.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network
PT Mistakes
00:59
Finding the Right PT for You with Wendy Wagner
01:20:49

Finding the Right PT for You with Wendy Wagner

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, welcomes Chicago-based physical therapist Wendy Wagner to discuss the unique challenges of physical therapy for hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Wendy, who personally manages EDS, POTS, and MCAS, shares her journey, insights on cervical instability, and tips for choosing the right physical therapist. They dive into the importance of “starting low and going slow” in exercise, strategies for avoiding flares, and how to tailor physical therapy to individual needs. Whether you’re looking to build strength or simply move without pain, Wendy’s expertise provides guidance and practical hacks to make physical therapy safer and more effective for hypermobile bodies. Takeaways: Physical Therapy Requires Customization: Traditional PT often doesn’t suit hypermobile patients, who benefit more from individualized programs that focus on stability and gradual strength-building. Start Low, Go Slow: Many patients with EDS need to begin with very small movements to avoid overloading their joints and worsening pain or instability. Building Confidence is Essential: Overcoming kinesiophobia (fear of movement) is key for hypermobile patients, often requiring exercises that first build trust in their bodies. Mindfulness and Body Awareness Matter: Breathing exercises, body awareness, and even posture adjustments can help patients avoid compensatory movements and pain. Collaboration is Key in PT: Finding a PT willing to learn and work collaboratively is crucial for hypermobile patients to safely navigate physical therapy. 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.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Wendy Wagner Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wendy4therapy Website: https://www.wendy4therapy.com/ Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network
Food, Fiber, and Flexibility with Lorna Ryan
01:12:10

Food, Fiber, and Flexibility with Lorna Ryan

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 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.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Lorna Ryan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lornaryanhealth Diet 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/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network
Historical HEDS
00:58
Biomarkers - Are we Close? with Dr. Clair Francomano
01:13:38

Biomarkers - Are we Close? with Dr. Clair Francomano

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, has an in-depth conversation with Dr. Clair Francomano, a leading expert on connective tissue disorders and Chair of the Medical and Scientific Advisory Board for the Ehlers-Danlos Society. Dr. Francomano shares her insights on diagnosing hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) versus hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), the current state of genetic testing, and emerging biomarkers (are we close?) that could revolutionize hEDS diagnosis. She discusses the potential connections between EDS, mast cell activation syndrome (MCAS), and postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), offering advice for patients navigating this complex landscape. With updates from ongoing research, this episode is essential listening for those with EDS or related conditions. Takeaways: Differences Between hEDS and HSD: Dr. Francomano explains the nuanced distinctions between hypermobile EDS (hEDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD), noting that these categories may overlap more than previously thought and might benefit from unified diagnostic criteria in the future. Genetic Testing Red Flags: While genetic testing can be useful, Dr. Francomano highlights specific “red flags” in family history or personal health that should prompt a referral to a geneticist for further investigation. Current Limitations of Genetic Testing for hEDS: Unlike other types of EDS, hEDS currently has no identified genetic markers, meaning diagnosis relies on clinical criteria rather than genetic testing alone. Emerging Biomarkers Show Promise: New studies, such as those exploring fibronectin and calocrine, suggest potential biomarkers for hEDS and HSD, which could transform diagnosis and treatment in the future. Holistic Approach to Comorbidities: Dr. Francomano discusses how hEDS often presents with comorbidities like POTS and mast cell activation syndrome, recommending a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to manage these interconnected symptoms effectively. 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.com Podcast Advertising/Business Inquiries: sales@human-content.com YOUR bendy body is our highest priority! Learn about Dr. Clair Francomano Her Book: https://amzn.to/4e3eSaF Instagram: @dr.clairfrancomano Youtube: @DoctorClair Red Flags List: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/p/redflags/ Keep up to date with the HypermobilityMD: YouTube: youtube.com/@bendybodiespodcast Twitter: twitter.com/BluesteinLinda LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/hypermobilitymd Facebook: facebook.com/BendyBodiesPodcast Blog: hypermobilitymd.com/blog Part of the Human Content Podcast Network

Videos:

Publications:

Why double-jointed people are more likely to have health problems

Author: Rachel Fairbank

 

Why do I hurt? Gaining a better grasp on hypermobility and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

Author: Jackie Duda

MDs With Chronic Illness Live in a Different Medical World

Author: Sarah Yahr Tucker

 

Does Hypermobility Make You More Prone to Sports Injuries?

Author: Beth Krietsch

 

Hope for Hypermobility: Part 2-An Integrative Approach to Treating Symptomatic Joint Hypermobility

Author: Victoria Daylor, BFA, Cortney Gensemer, PhD, Russell Norris, PhD, and Linda Bluestein, MD.

 

Hope for Hypermobility: Part 1-An Integrative Approach to

Treating Symptomatic Joint Hypermobility

Author: Victoria Daylor, BFA, Cortney Gensemer, PhD, Russell Norris, PhD, and Linda Bluestein, MD.

 

Millions have the same 'bendy body' disease as my daughter. Why isn't the medical profession paying more attention?

Author: Sarah Lazarus

My daughter and COVID: a tale of 3 doctors

Author: Laura Fernando and Linda Bluestein, MD  

 

What a lifetime of gaslighting by other doctors feels like

Author: Sarah Cohen, MD and Linda Bluestein, MD  

The journey to diagnosing a mysterious illness

Author: Linda Bluestein, MD and Lauren Vasko

 

Besides Being Bendy, Hypermobile Dancers May Experience These Surprising Symptoms

Author: Linda Bluestein, MD

The difficult to diagnose comorbidity that plagues Ehlers-Danlos syndrome patients 

Author: Linda Bluestein, MD and Julie Griffis, PT

Inflammation in the Dancer

Author: Linda Bluestein

The Dancer's Planning Guide to Optimizing Immunity During COVID-19 and Beyond 

Author: Linda S. Bluestein

Diagnosis of mast cell activation syndrome: a global “consensus-2” 

Authors:  Lawrence B. Afrin, Mary B. Ackerley, Linda S. Bluestein et al

"Disjointed | Navigating the Diagnosis and Management of hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders"

Editor: Diana Jovin, Contributors: Paldeep Atwal, M.D., Richard Barnum, M.D., Linda Bluestein, M.D. et al

 

Pain Management in Patients with Hypermobility Disorders

Author: Linda Bluestein 

Perioperative Care in Patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndromes

Authors: Pradeep Chopra and Linda Bluestein 

Understanding Hypermobility in Dancers

Author: Linda Bluestein for Healthy Dancer Canada

Anesthesia and Surgery Safety Card

Created by Linda Bluestein 


 

Podcasts:

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Bendy Bodies with the Hypermobility MD
Podcast

Founder and Host,

Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD

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Hypermobility Problems with Anesthesiologist Dr. Linda Bluestein

Knock Knock, Hi! with the Glaucomfleckens Podcast

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Hypermobility: Separating Fact From Fiction with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Acrobatic Arts Podcast

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Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Beyond - Health Connections You Need to Know with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Becoming Immune Confident Podcast

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Holistic Approaches to Navigating Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, POTS, and MCAS

Modern Pain Podcast

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Pain and Hypermobility with Dr. Linda Bluestein - Mast Cell Matters Series

The POTSCAST

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Hypermobility Disorders: The Power of Proactivity with Linda Bluestein, MD

Acrobatic Arts Podcast

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Treatment Room Secrets #19 - Dr. Linda Bluesteim M.D. - Hypermobility

Treatment Room Secrets Podcast

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Case #05: Kyle
With Dr. Linda Bluestein

Symptomatic: A Medical Mystery Podcast

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Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Redefining Yoga

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If you can't connect the issues, think connective tissues 

The Podcast by Kevin MD

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The Link Between Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders, Hypermobile-EDS, MCAS, and Endometriosis with Dr Linda Bluestein

This EndoLife

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003- Dr. Linda Bluestein M.D.-Hypermobility, Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, and Why You Are Stronger Than You Believe.

 Whealth Podcast

Schedule an Event
with the Hypermobility M.D.

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