If you have been recently diagnosed with Ehlers Danlos syndrome (previously known as “joint hypermobility syndrome”), you might be feeling a little unsure about your future. While there is no cure for this condition, many of those who suffer from it can lead a very fulfilling life.
Below you will find a few tips that could help you to deal with your diagnoses and whatever it might throw at you:
Try to Keep Moving
You might be tempted to lay in bed all day or sit down and watch television. The fear of hurting yourself can occasionally be overwhelming. However, you should try to keep moving.
Learn how to move within what the medical world calls a “normal range of movement”. It can be hard to know what this is, but try to move like someone who does not have this condition. Be aware of your movements and try not to extend your limbs too far.
The more you keep moving, the less likely you are to avoid straining your body.
Get Help with Your Pain
It goes without saying that the pain associated with the condition can be bad at times. This is why it is vital that you get help with it. Try not to be brave and put up with the pain, you won’t be doing yourself any favors. Ask your doctor for some painkillers and consider other solutions such as PRP therapy. When you try to combat your pain, you’re more likely to find an effective way to deal with it.
Get Enough Sleep
We all know that getting enough sleep is absolutely crucial. However, when you are dealing with Ehlers Danlos syndrome, you need to make sure that getting sleep is even more important. This is because a good night’s sleep can mean you’re in less pain when the morning comes around.
Think About What you Can do
While you might be tempted to think about what you can’t do, you should try to think about what you can do. You could still be capable of achieving a lot every day, even on those days when the pain is bad. Don’t be afraid to take it easy now and again, just make sure you are aware of what you can still do. Not only will this help you to stay motivated, but it can help you to avoid feeling down about your situation.
Ask for Support
Please ask for support from your doctors, partner, friends, and family if you’re struggling the people who love you will want to be there for you. You don’t have to rely on them for support every day, just be sure to ask them for help on those bad days.
Ehlers Danlos syndrome can impact your life, but with a bit of work on your behalf, you could find that getting through the day is easier than you thought. Be kind to yourself and remember that this condition does not define who you are.
