The review identified six studies using either an isolated psychological intervention or one incorporated into a multidisciplinary program to address outcomes including pain, fatigue, anxiety, depression and quality of life in both children and adults with HSD/EDS.

Analysis of the six studies confirmed that psychological interventions lead to significant and, in some cases, long-term improvements in the lived experiences of people with HSD/EDS, particularly within the pain domain. 

The most beneficial approaches incorporated psychological interventions alongside physiotherapy in a multidisciplinary program, significantly reducing pain-related fear and catastrophising as well as the physical impact of pain in patients with HSD/EDS.

The authors also noted that the majority of studies were conducted in outpatient or community settings and that better outcomes were seen when patients were actively involved in the design of their intervention, suggesting that clinicians and patients should work together to ensure that ‘the intervention is designed and tailored appropriately for the patient and their presenting complaints.’

The authors concluded that ‘the most effective interventions for HSD/EDS were those that were multidisciplinary and targeted the physical and psychological impact of pain and physical disability. 

Addressing these factors will in turn improve additional symptoms of HSD/EDS, such as fatigue, depression and anxiety, and quality of life.’

Read the research here.