Treating Hypermobility & EDS

Living with Hypermobility requires a different approach – we have the experience.

You Deserve a Solution That Works

Have you been told you have “loose joints” or ligament laxity? Do you experience widespread pain, frequent joint dislocations, or worsening symptoms after traditional treatments like physical therapy, massage, or exercise?

If so, you may have hypermobile spectrum disorder or Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)—and the wrong treatment approach can make things worse.

Learn More about EDS

For more information about Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, please refer to the website below.

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Explore Your Symptoms

For more information about your symptoms, please refer to the website below.

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A New Approach for Hypermobility & EDS

At Orthopedic Physical Therapy, Inc., we understand the unique challenges of hypermobility disorders. Unlike traditional methods that may aggravate your condition, we take a specialized approach designed to:

We help you understand your body’s natural posture—where it moves well and where it may be restricted
We prescribe individualized exercises that are both safe and targeted to address your specific impairments and movement patterns
Our goal is to help you safely gain the strength you need to confidently take on everyday activities with reduced discomfort.
We use hands-on techniques to enhance your home program—helping release tight areas and guide your body back to healthier movement

Success Stories

"After YEARS of being in pain, YEARS of doctors telling me nothing was wrong and I needed to lose weight, COUNTLESS different types of Physical Therapies. Thousands of dollars were wasted on Doctors. I finally got a diagnosis of Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. My last step was going to a rheumatologist, he was the one who diagnosed me and told me to look for a Physical Therapist who specializes in hypermobility."

-Melanie G.

"Orthopedic Physical Therapy is the best place to get physical therapy in the greater Richmond area. I have been to them for several issues I had over the years, and they helped me tremendously. They listen to the client, do a thorough evaluation, and use their skills to address the issue. They do not just throw exercises at you. They give you exercises to do outside of appointments, but they spend the appointment actually working on you, helping to remediate the issue. I have nothing but respect for this practice."

-Barbara r.

Hypermobility & Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome - Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the difference between hypermobility and EDS?

Hypermobility can occur in people without EDS, but when joint hypermobility is accompanied by systemic symptoms such as skin fragility, poor wound healing, or vascular issues, it may indicate a connective tissue disorder like EDS.

How is EDS diagnosed?

A diagnosis of hEDS is based on clinical criteria, including joint hypermobility (measured by the Beighton Score), a history of related symptoms, and ruling out other conditions. Genetic testing is available for some types of EDS, but not hEDS.

Should I avoid exercise if I have EDS?

No, movement is important for maintaining joint function and strength. However, exercises should be modified to prevent overstretching and excessive strain on joints.

Do I need a referral to start physical therapy for hypermobility or EDS?

No, in Virginia, you are able to see a physical therapist without a doctor’s referral, thanks to Direct Access laws.

Meet Our Hypermobility Experts

Meet Kristen

Kristen R. W. Hicks, PT, MPT, CMTPT/DN, received a B.S. in Exercise and Sports Science from The George Washington University in 1997 and a Master of Physical Therapy degree from Shenandoah University in 2000. Ms. Hicks specializes in treating patients with musculoskeletal dysfunctions of the neck and back, as well as muscle imbalances of the hip and shoulder. Ms. Hicks has advanced training in osteopathic manual techniques, such as muscle energy technique, myofascial release, craniosacral therapy, functional indirect technique, and trigger point dry needling. Ms. Hicks received international post-graduate certification in Dry Needling by Myopain Seminars and Janet G. Travell, MD Seminar Series in May 2012. Ms. Hicks is SFMA Level 2 certified and is also Direct Access Certified.

Meet Rebecca

Rebecca Ayers Harris, PT, DPT, CMTPT/DN, received her B.S in Health Sciences with honors in 2009 from James Madison University. Dr. Ayers received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from Virginia Commonwealth University in 2012. She has worked in outpatient settings treating a variety of orthopedic diagnosis. Dr. Harris has a special interest working with patients with dysfunctions of the shoulder, hip, and knee, as well as neck, back and other spinal problems. She believes in an active approach to physical therapy, incorporating manual therapy techniques exercises specifically tailored to each patient. Dr. Harris received international post-graduate certification in Dry Needling by Myopain Seminars and Janet G. Travell, MD Seminar Series in 2018. Dr. Rebecca Ayers is Direct Access Certified.

Ready to Feel Better? Experience Counts

Don’t let pain hold you back. If you have questions or want to know what treatments are right for you, contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Richmond, VA office. Let’s get you moving again!