May is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Awareness Month, and at Highett Podiatry, we’re helping raise awareness about how EDS can affect foot health, mobility, and everyday comfort.
What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is a group of inherited connective tissue disorders that affect the body’s collagen. Collagen provides strength, support, and stability to tissues throughout the body, including ligaments, tendons, skin, muscles, joints, blood vessels, and internal organs.
The most common type is Hypermobile EDS (hEDS). Symptoms and severity vary, but many people experience musculoskeletal problems that affect daily function and mobility.
Common Symptoms of EDS
- Generalised joint hypermobility (“double-jointedness”)
- Frequent joint sprains, subluxations, or dislocations
- Chronic joint and muscle pain
- Fatigue and reduced endurance
- Muscle weakness
- Poor proprioception (reduced body awareness and balance)
- Soft, stretchy, or fragile skin
- Delayed healing or easy bruising
Associated Conditions
- Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
- Chronic fatigue
- Gastrointestinal dysfunction
- Headaches and migraines
- Pelvic instability
- Anxiety related to chronic pain or recurrent injury
Because connective tissue is found throughout the body, EDS can affect multiple systems and may require management from several healthcare professionals.
How Does EDS Affect the Feet?
The feet and ankles are commonly affected in people with EDS because they contain numerous joints, ligaments, tendons, and stabilising muscles that rely heavily on connective tissue support. When these structures are more elastic than normal, the feet may become unstable, inefficient, and prone to overload injuries.
Flat Feet and Arch Collapse
- Flat feet (pes planus)
- Foot fatigue
- Heel pain
- Arch pain
- Stress through knees, hips, and lower back
- Difficulty tolerating prolonged standing or walking
- Children may appear clumsy, tire quickly, or avoid activity
Ankle Instability and Recurrent Sprains
- Chronic ankle pain
- Swelling
- Balance difficulties
- Tendon overload
- Fear of movement or exercise
Increased Risk of Overuse Injuries
- Plantar fasciitis
- Achilles tendon pain
- Shin pain
- Peroneal tendon injuries
- Forefoot pain
- Stress fractures
- Altered foot mechanics contributing to knee, hip, and back pain
Proprioception and Balance Difficulties
- Falls
- Trips
- Recurrent injuries
- Difficulty on uneven ground
How Can Podiatry Help?
At Highett Podiatry, treatment focuses on improving stability, reducing pain, and helping patients remain active safely.
- Footwear advice
- Custom orthotics
- Strengthening and stability exercises
- Activity modification and load management
- Ankle bracing or taping
- Gait analysis and biomechanical assessment
- Coordination with other healthcare providers
Early intervention can reduce long-term strain on the feet and lower limbs while improving comfort and confidence with movement. If you or your child experience ongoing foot pain, recurrent sprains, hypermobility, or fatigue, our team is here to help.