Manage Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome/Hypermobility with Tai Chi
For those living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), finding ways to stay active and care for the body can be a real challenge. Many individuals with EDS are drawn to high-impact martial arts in their youth, such as Tae Kwon Do, heavy weight training, HIIT, etc. However, as hypermobility issues and joint problems become more apparent, they often have to step away from these demanding sports in order to protect their bodies.
Despite this difficult choice, those with EDS are determined not to give up the physical, mental, and cultural benefits they gained from martial arts training. This is where the ancient Chinese practice of Tai Chi has proven to be a game-changer.
Tai Chi is often described as "moving meditation" - a gentle, flowing form of exercise that combines slow, deliberate movements with deep breathing and mindfulness. Unlike the high-impact routines of before, Tai Chi is extremely low-impact and focused on control, stability, and alignment. As research has shown, it offers a wide range of benefits for those with EDS and other hypermobility disorders.
How Tai Chi Can Help Manage EDS Symptoms
For individuals living with chronic joint pain and instability, Tai Chi has demonstrated remarkable advantages. The controlled, deliberate movements help strengthen the muscles surrounding the joints, improving stability and reducing the risk of dislocations or sprains. The flowing range-of-motion exercises also increase overall flexibility.
Furthermore, Tai Chi has been shown to be an effective form of pain and fatigue management for those with chronic pain conditions. The mindfulness and deep breathing components can also help better manage the fatigue that often accompanies EDS.
By focusing on proper body alignment throughout the Tai Chi forms, practitioners become much more aware of their posture and balance. This helps them avoid further strain on their hypermobile joints.
Beyond the physical advantages, Tai Chi provides mental and emotional benefits as well. The meditative aspects of the practice can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate EDS symptoms.
Getting Started with Tai Chi
One of the best things about Tai Chi is its accessibility, especially for those with physical limitations. No special equipment is needed - just comfortable clothes and a bit of open space. There are also plenty of online and in-person resources to guide individuals through the basic forms and movements.
In fact, here at TCLM we offer group Tai Chi sessions to all of our patients, thanks to Mind-Body Medicine Practitioner, Geny Moreno. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, with reports of improved symptoms and overall wellbeing. After sessions, patients note they feel more connected to their bodies, less tense, and more peaceful overall.
For those living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome or another hypermobility disorder, Tai Chi offers a gentle, low-impact way to stay active, improve physical and mental health, and find a sense of community with others on a similar journey.
For more information:
How Tai Chi Helps Manage Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome." Mayo Clinic Connect, 10 Apr. 2024, https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/finding-gentle-strength-how-tai-chi-helps-manage-ehlers-danlos-syndrome/.
Text us to sign up for a Tai Chi Session with Geny Moreno at 713-597-4521.
