Should People With EDS See a Chiropractor?
For people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) or other forms of hypermobility, the question of whether chiropractic care is safe can be complicated. The connective tissue of hypermobile people is different, and these differences lead to more laxity in the ligaments — This unique anatomy, particularly in the neck, requires extra caution when considering treatments like chiropractic adjustments.
Why Hypermobile Necks Are Risky
When ligaments in neck region are lax, there is a risk of Cervical Instability (CI), a condition where the head and neck are insufficiently supported. Unfortunately, many chiropractors who perform spinal manipulations are unaware of the consequences that can occur if a patient has cervical instability, and chiropractic adjustments, especially in the neck, can be counterproductive.
What Is an HVLA Adjustment?
HVLA stands for High-Velocity Low-Amplitude, the most common type of chiropractic adjustment. It’s a quick thrust with minimal force, often producing the familiar “pop” sound. While research has shown that HVLA adjustments can reduce pain and improve range of motion, the long-term effects on a hypermobile neck are unknown.
Short-term relief may feel amazing. You can get back to work, exercise, and daily life without constantly thinking about pain. But for people with hypermobility, short-term relief is not worth the potential consequences.
There are currently no studies on HVLA adjustments on hypermobile necks versus controls.
Comorbidities That Increase Risk
Hypermobile patients often have additional conditions that further complicate chiropractic care, such as:
Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS)
Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS)
Chiari malformation
Cervical Instability (CI)
While these conditions aren’t an absolute contraindication to receiving chiropactic care, they do require extra training that many chiropractors don’t have.
What to Look for in a Provider
Hypermobile conditions like hEDS and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD) are under-diagnosed—only 1 in 5,000 people receive an accurate diagnosis, even though it’s estimated 1 in 500 have hEDS.
Many patients seek chiropractic care for symptoms such as neck pain, headaches, brain fog, nausea, or vision changes. While these are common reasons for spinal adjustments in the general population, they may indicate hypermobility in some patients.
A responsible chiropractor should:
Screen for hypermobility
Avoid cervical HVLA adjustments if hypermobility or CI is suspected
Discuss alternatives to HVLA adjustments that are safer for hypermobile patients, such as gentle mobilizations, Craniosacral therapy, or myofascial release
It’s important for patients to be proactive: if you have symptoms of hypermobility, seek providers experienced with EDS and HSD.
Bottom Line
For people with EDS, HSD, or cervical instability, traditional spinal manipulations, especially in the neck, can pose risks. There are safer alternatives for managing pain, improving mobility, and supporting nervous system function. Always ensure your provider understands hypermobility and its implications before receiving care.
Looking for a Portland chiropractor who understands EDS, hypermobility, and cervical instability?
At TMJ Chiro, my approach blends gentle techniques and nervous system regulation to help you feel safe, supported, and strong.
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