The Osher Clinical Center began offering a unique exercise based-workshop series in collaboration with the Brigham and Women’s Hospital Department of Rehabilitation Services: “Pilates for Hypermobile Bodies and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome.” The program is led by Dana Arie, PT, a Brigham and Women’s Hospital Physical Therapist and Orthopedic Clinical Specialist.
Dana also completed a Dance and Performing Art Internship at the Artistic Athlete Health Collective and is a certified Pilates instructor (equipment and mat). Dana has an extensive background in tailoring Pilates as a rehabilitation tool for common musculoskeletal conditions. For this 6-session, 1 hour weekly workshop, she integrates Pilates concepts and functional movements into a progression of exercise practices for individuals with joint hypermobility.
Hypermobility spectrum disorders and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (H-EDS/HSD) are complex multi-systemic conditions requiring a multidisciplinary management approach. Many people with H-EDS/HSD are prone to musculoskeletal pain and injuries due to poor joint stability and proprioception deficits. Exercise is an important component of musculoskeletal management, although individuals with H-EDS/HSD often find the gym environment and large group exercise programs overwhelming. Engaging in traditional exercise programs often results in injury. Many individuals abandon exercise due to injury or fear of injury. Kinsiophobia is a common obstacle to independent movement-based care and contributes to social isolation.
- The benefits of exercise, particularly in a group format, can be far reaching for individuals with H-EDS/HSD.
- In addition to direct musculoskeletal benefits, exercise may reduce fatigue, stress and anxiety/depression.
- This condition specific, group-based exercise workshop offers a social environment for discussion and a form of group therapy.
- Selection of exercises, and their progression, is carefully considered, incorporating external and tactile feedback for optimal outcomes.
After the inaugural 6-week workshop series, participants reported gaining substantial function and pain relief. All have requested a maintenance program. We began our second group in January and intend to keep the program running.
Anyone interested in receiving notification of upcoming classes can sign up at: https://forms.office.com/r/4BeDDRsvcd.