Zebra Talks: Living Your Best Bendy Life

Host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes cardiologist Dr. Alexis Cutchins, who left Emory after 13 years to open a private practice in New York City with the goal of building a multidisciplinary center for hypermobility spectrum disorders. Dr. Cutchins describes how curiosity led her into treating patients with POTS, dysautonomia, long COVID, EDS, and MCAS, and explains that MCAS can both drive and be triggered by POTS physiology. She also explains pelvic venous disease/left iliac vein compression as a frequent contributor to pooling, reduced cerebral perfusion, and orthostatic symptoms, sometimes treated mechanically with venous stenting.   EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 Welcome to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Dr Alexis Cutchins 02:13 Why She Focuses on POTS 04:24 Leaving Emory for NYC 05:09 Building a Center of Excellence 06:40 Hypermobility in POTS Patients 07:44 MCAS and Connective Tissue Link 08:35 How MCAS Worsens POTS 12:24 Treating MCAS Stepwise 14:56 Do POTS Subtypes Matter 16:30 Tilt Table Test Debate 19:07 Stigma Around POTS Diagnosis 20:04 Stigma And Awareness 20:27 Primary Care POTS Care 20:51 Heart Rate Reassurance 22:11 MCAS Symptom Overlap 23:55 Why Mast Cells Trigger 26:04 Pelvic Venous Disease 27:51 Iliac Compression Explained 31:14 Symptoms And Red Flags 33:19 Stents And Treatment 35:39 Where To Find Dr. Cutchins 36:34 Telehealth And Wrap   EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Cutchins Cardiovascular Medicine Follow Dr. Alexis Cutchins, MD on Instagram @drcutchins Follow Dr. Alexis Cutchins, MD on YouTube @DrCutchins   LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow Libby Hinsley on Instagram @libbyhinsleypt Follow Libby Hinsley on Facebook Learn more about Libby Hinsley, How to Work with Her, or Join her Email List Leave a review on iTunes

Host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Dr. Poorvi Desai, a board-certified hematologist-oncologist living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and comorbidities. Dr. Desai explains genetic testing basics (single-gene, exome, and whole-genome sequencing), distinguishing somatic testing from germline inherited testing used for hereditary connective tissue disorders. She notes that 13 of 14 EDS subtypes have identified single-gene causes, but hEDS does not. They warn that direct-to-consumer genetic tests can be misleading, produce uncertain results, and may require retesting, emphasizing clinician-ordered, validated testing mainly to exclude other conditions like vascular EDS, and expressing hope for updated 2026 criteria and improved evidence-based care.   00:00 Welcome to Zebra Talks 00:36 Meet Dr Poorvi Desai 01:14 Poorvi’s Hypermobility Journey 03:47 Genetic Testing Basics 06:00 Germline vs Somatic Testing 08:24 How Sequencing Works Today 10:10 Why HEDS Lacks a Gene 10:37 HEDGE Study Findings 15:05 Polygenic Neuroimmune Model 18:05 Direct to Consumer Pitfalls 28:26 Using Testing to Exclude Types 32:08 Access Cost and System Gaps 34:49 Hope New Criteria and Treatments 39:10 Evidence Based Caution 41:10 Where to Find Dr. Desai 42:05 Final Thanks and Goodbye EPISODE LINKS & RESOURCES: Follow Dr. Poorvi Desai, MD on Instagram @drpoorvidesai Follow Dr. Poorvi Desai, MD on Substack @drpoorvidesai Follow Dr. Poorvi Desai, MD on YouTube @drpoorvidesai LINKS AND RESOURCES: Follow Libby Hinsley on Instagram @libbyhinsleypt Follow Libby Hinsley on Facebook Learn more about Libby Hinsley, How to Work with Her, or Join her Email List Leave a review on iTunes

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley discusses the challenges and experiences of living with hypermobility syndromes with guest Lauren Brown. Diagnosed with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and POTS, Lauren shares her long and complicated journey through a diagnostic maze, frequent medical gaslighting, and the significant impact of finding knowledgeable and empathetic healthcare providers.   Despite her struggles, Lauren started a YouTube channel, POTS Zebra, to raise awareness and support others facing similar conditions. This episode highlights the importance of community, persistence, and self-advocacy in managing chronic illnesses.   Highlights of this episode include:    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Lauren Brown: A Journey with EDS and POTS 01:44 Early Signs and Misdiagnoses 04:13 High School Struggles and a Breakthrough 06:29 College and Beyond: Continued Challenges 12:45 A Lifesaving Diagnosis 13:46 Ongoing Health Battles and Advocacy 19:11 Finding the Right Doctor 19:45 Sharing the Journey 22:02 Medical Gaslighting and Bias 23:11 The Importance of Diagnosis 27:19 Building a Support Network 30:10 Starting a YouTube Channel 33:11 Resources and Support 36:02 Final Thoughts and Community

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley, physical therapist and author of 'Yoga for Bendy People,' talks with guest Dena Mellick, a barbell coach and founder of Strength Equity.    Dena shares her journey from chronic illness and pain management to becoming a strength coach. They delve into the intricacies of training clients with hypermobility syndromes (HSD) and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), emphasizing the importance of resistance training and collaborative approaches for managing pain and improving quality of life.   Dena explains the benefits of strength training, particularly in combating age-related muscle loss, and offers practical tips for finding the right coach, avoiding common red flags, and accommodating individual needs. They also discuss the significance of progressive overload, appropriate equipment, and the critical role of protein in muscle recovery and maintenance.   Highlights of this episode include:    00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Dena Mellick: Strength Coach and Lifter 01:47 Dena's Journey to Lifting 03:30 The Importance of Strength Training 06:19 Powerlifting and Olympic Lifting Explained 09:04 Training Hypermobile Clients 16:26 Finding the Right Coach or Trainer 19:46 Resources for Training with Pain 22:30 Training with Hand Injuries 23:26 Green Flags in a Strength Coach 23:50 Red Flags to Avoid in a Coach 25:07 Importance of Proper Equipment 28:32 Personal Experiences with Coaching 30:08 One-on-One vs Group Training 32:25 Adapting Training to Life Stressors 35:17 Encouraging Barbell Use at Home 38:12 Getting Started with Resistance Training 40:43 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, Dr. Libby Hinsley hosts Dr. Derik Anderson, a chiropractor and expert in soft tissue research and treatment, to discuss various facets of managing hypermobility syndromes.   Dr. Anderson shares his journey into treating Ehlers Danlos Syndrome, insights on fascia differences in bendy bodies, and the role of heart rate variability (HRV) in energy management. They also delve into the importance of joint stabilization, nutrition, and innovative approaches like vibration therapy to improve the quality of life for those with hypermobility.   The episode emphasizes the significance of a holistic and individualized approach to care, reflecting on the need for managing systemic inflammation and energy levels to enhance recovery and overall health.   Highlights of this episode include:   00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:40 Meet Dr. Derik Anderson 01:34 Dr. Anderson's Journey with EDS 05:40 Understanding Fascia in Bendy Bodies 16:23 Heart Rate Variability and Energy Management 28:08 Tools and Techniques for Fascia and Muscle Health 34:40 Nutritional Insights for Bendy Bodies 36:51 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley speaks with Rob West, a physical therapist and board certified orthopedic specialist. They discuss the use of blood flow restriction (BFR) training as a tool for improving strength and managing symptoms in patients with Ehlers Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS).   Rob shares his journey from learning about EDS through a classmate to becoming a specialist in treating this population. He provides insights into how BFR works, its benefits, and necessary precautions. Rob also highlights the positive impact BFR and trunk compression with weightlifting belts can have on cerebral perfusion and symptom management for POTS patients. Additionally, he shares inspiring case studies of patients who have significantly improved their quality of life through these training methods. Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of these innovative approaches to physical therapy and their practical applications.   Highlights of this episode include:   00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Rob West: Physical Therapist and Strength Specialist 02:58 Understanding Blood Flow Restriction Training 05:37 Applying BFR in Clinical Practice 08:29 BFR for POTS Management 27:22 Patient Success Stories with BFR 31:15 Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, Libby welcomes Dr. David Saperstein, Director of the Center for Complex Neurology, EDS, and POTS in Phoenix, Arizona. Dr. Saperstein shares his journey into specializing in EDS and POTS, the complexities of diagnosing and treating POTS, and the importance of staying curious and open-minded in medical practice.   They discuss the challenges of diagnosing POTS, the importance of thorough testing, and various treatment strategies, including the critical role of salt and water intake. Dr. Saperstein also emphasizes the need for flexibility in treatment plans to better meet individual patient needs. Tune in to gain valuable insights into managing these complex conditions and hear about Dr. Saperstein's innovative approaches.   00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Dr. David Saperstein 01:45 Dr. Saperstein's Journey into EDS and POTS 03:47 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating POTS 10:00 Understanding POTS and Its Complexities 18:29 Diagnostic Criteria and Testing for POTS 31:06 Treatment Strategies for POTS 36:54 Managing POTS with Lifestyle Changes 41:36 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, Dr. Libby Hinsley hosts biomechanist and bestselling author Katy Bowman to discuss the unique features of hypermobile bodies. Katy shares her insights on biomechanics, tissue creep, and the importance of proprioception and attentional focus for hypermobile bodies. They also explore the impact of sedentary culture and strategies for integrating more diverse movements into daily life. Katie explains her evolutionary perspective on movement and emphasizes the need for hypermobile individuals to engage in movement that enhances body awareness and stability. Practical tips, theoretical insights, and Katie's innovative approach to movement therapy make this a must-listen for those living with hypermobility.   Highlights of this episode include: 00:35 Meet Katie Bowman: Biomechanist and Movement Expert   01:56 Understanding Biomechanics and Hypermobility   09:40 The Impact of Sedentary Culture on Hypermobility   17:17 Practical Tips for Managing Hypermobility   22:15 The Psychological Aspect of Movement   34:00 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley is joined by strength and conditioning coach Becca Lee to discuss their collborative innovative strength training class 'Bendy and Badass,' designed specifically for people with hypermobility syndromes. They share their journey in developing the class, discuss the unique challenges faced by hypermobile individuals, and explain effective strategies and exercises used to help participants build strength and improve quality of life. The conversation also highlights the importance of slow, controlled movements, personalized programming, and the significance of community support within the class setting. Highlights of this episode include: 00:35 Meet Becca Lee: Strength and Conditioning Coach 01:03 The Journey to Bendy and Badass 01:23 Becca's Coaching Philosophy 03:28 Libby's Personal Training Experience 12:59 The Birth of Bendy and Badass Class 14:23 Class Structure and Community Impact 16:14 Exercise Selection and Programming 23:10 Dumbbells and Progressive Loading 23:34 Four-Week Programming Cycle 28:36 Importance of Slow and Controlled Movements 34:11 Rate of Perceived Exertion (RPE) 40:57 Community and Individual Progress 46:13 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley is joined by Dr. Kate Bochnewetch, a physical therapist and run coach, to discuss running with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS), Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders (HSD), and other chronic illnesses.   Kate shares her personal journey with hypermobility, POTS, and chronic migraine, and how these experiences influenced her approach to training runners with similar conditions. Topics covered include the importance of a gentle, conservative, and health-focused training plan, the role of strength training, managing stress, and the selection of appropriate footwear.   Kate also offers insights into pacing and mental preparedness, emphasizing the need for individualized care and flexibility in exercise routines. Listeners interested in learning more about Kate's work can find her on Instagram at @the_running_dpt or visit her website at therunningdpt.com.   Highlights of this episode include:   00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Kate Bognawicz: Physical Therapist and Coach 01:36 Kate's Journey with Hypermobility 03:30 Challenges in Traditional PT Practice 06:34 Approach to Running Training for EDS/HSD 08:20 Indicators for Running Readiness 10:07 Debunking Myths About Running with EDS/HSD 14:31 Strength Training for Joint Stability 16:51 Running Progression Timeline 22:04 Managing POTS in Running Training 24:14 Footwear Recommendations 27:08 Run-Walk Approach and Stress Management 32:18 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Nikki Naab-Levy, a certified strength and nutrition coach with extensive experience in helping hypermobile individuals. Nikki shares her personal journey with hypermobility and discusses the benefits of strength training for those with hypermobility syndromes. They explore the importance of understanding one's limits, the concept of rate of perceived exertion (RPE), and how to adjust training programs appropriately. The conversation also touches on the significance of proper nutrition and body autonomy. Listeners are provided with practical advice on how to approach strength training safely and effectively, even when dealing with chronic conditions. Highlights of this episode include: 00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Nikki Naab-Levy 01:29 Nikki's Personal Journey with Hypermobility 04:16 The Benefits of Strength Training for Hypermobile People 04:40 Understanding 'Heavy' in Strength Training 06:43 Approach to Strength Training for Hypermobile Individuals 15:53 Progressing in Strength Training 23:52 The Importance of Deloading 25:11 The Importance of Deload Weeks 25:45 Listening to Your Body's Cues 27:52 Adjusting Workouts for Hypermobility 31:39 Indicators for Slowing Down 32:13 Mental Strategies for Setbacks 37:11 Nutrition and Recovery for Hypermobility 40:30 The Role of Alignment and Load 46:41 Final Thoughts on Body Autonomy 48:32 Where to Find More Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley talks with Dr. Mamak Shakib, a chiropractic physician specializing in functional mobility, joint hypermobility, and pelvic floor dysfunction. Dr. Shakib shares her 30-year journey in treating hypermobile patients, emphasizing the importance of developmental kinesiology and dynamic neuromuscular stabilization (DNS) for sustainable joint health and stability. She discusses common issues faced by hypermobile individuals in traditional chiropractic and rehabilitation settings, the significance of tailored approaches, and the role of proper breathing techniques in maintaining functional stability. The episode sheds light on Dr. Shakib's unique methodologies and her advocacy for better communication and understanding between healthcare providers and patients with hypermobility syndromes.   Highlights of this episode include: 00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Dr. Mamak Shakib 01:58 Discovering Hypermobility 07:23 Challenges in Traditional Rehabilitation 20:55 Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) 34:05 Breathing Techniques for Bendy People 45:45 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Dr. Melissa Koehl to discuss her journey with Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and how it has shaped her career in physical therapy. Melissa shares her personal struggles with diagnosis, the importance of recognizing hypermobility in the context of fibromyalgia, and the intersection of these conditions with other systemic issues like dysautonomia and mast cell activation syndrome. She also discusses the significance of personalized exercise programs, gut health, and the holistic approaches necessary to manage these complex conditions effectively. 00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Melissa Kahle: A Journey with Hypermobile EDS 01:40 Melissa's Personal and Professional Journey 03:35 The Diagnosis and Its Impact 06:19 Exploring Fibromyalgia and Hypermobility 06:48 Understanding Fibromyalgia: Diagnosis and Criteria 12:04 Treatment Approaches for Fibromyalgia 16:13 Exercise and Movement Strategies 22:35 Exploring Mast Cells and Fibromyalgia 24:28 The Gut Microbiome and Pain Connection 24:53 Personal Struggles with SIBO 29:20 Navigating Healthcare as a Hypermobile Human 31:59 Creating Resources for the Hypermobile Community 37:33 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this episode of Zebra Talks, host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Dr. Jessica Eccles, a prominent consultant psychiatrist and researcher, to discuss her personal and professional experiences with hypermobility syndromes. Dr. Eccles shares insights from her extensive research on the links between hypermobility, anxiety, neurodevelopmental conditions, and chronic health issues such as fibromyalgia and ME/CFS. She explains how differences in brain structure and function, along with abnormal autonomic nervous system responses, can affect those with hypermobility. Dr. Eccles also introduces a novel treatment approach, the ADAPT therapy, designed to reduce anxiety in hypermobile individuals. The conversation highlights the importance of proper diagnosis, medical education, and innovative therapeutic strategies for managing these complex conditions. 00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Dr. Jessica Echols 01:34 Dr. Echols' Personal Journey with Hypermobility 04:00 Discovering the Link Between Hypermobility and Anxiety 08:50 Exploring Brain Differences in Hypermobile Individuals 11:00 The Role of the Involuntary Nervous System 17:02 Novel Treatments and Future Research 21:05 Connections Between Hypermobility and Neurodivergence 35:45 Challenges and Future Directions in Medical Education 39:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

If you have a bendy neck, this one's for you!  For this week's episode of Zebra Talks, Libby has a fascinating conversation with Taylor Goldberg, a chiropractor turned virtual hypermobility coach. Taylor shares a bit about her personal journey with hypermobility and her shift to a virtual coaching model, and then helps us understand all things upper cervical instability (UCI), including its causes, symptoms, diagnostic challenges, and treatment options. UCI affects a whole lot of people with hypermobility, but good news: the most severe cases requiring surgery are quite rare even among us bendy types. Whew!  Taylor unpacks a lot of definitions such as distinguishing between hypermobility and instability (no, they're not the same thing!). She also covers lots of good info about safe exercise practices, and emphasizes why it's so important to avoid certain chiropractic adjustments. The episode also touches on yoga practices for hypermobile individuals and the significance of conservative care in managing UCI. Highlights of this episode include: 00:00 Introduction to Zebra Talks 00:35 Meet Taylor Goldberg: Chiropractor to Hypermobility Coach 01:49 Taylor's Personal Journey with Hypermobility 03:40 Understanding Hypermobility and Instability 06:11 Upper Cervical Instability: Symptoms and Diagnosis 14:42 Managing Upper Cervical Instability 19:01 Activities to Avoid and Chiropractic Cautions 24:12 Challenges in Chiropractic and PT Training 25:23 The Need for Comprehensive Connective Tissue Education 27:02 Creating Realistic Expectations in Recovery 27:49 Step-by-Step Recovery Process 29:39 Exercise Categories and Proprioception 33:46 Managing Upper Cervical Instability 35:01 Yoga and Hypermobility 39:11 Resources and Offerings for Hypermobility 41:16 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

In this episode of Zebra Talks, Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes Lisa Sherman, a licensed acupuncturist with expertise in functional medicine and molecular biology, to discuss digestive issues among people with hypermobility syndromes. They delve into the prevalence of gastrointestinal problems like dysmotility, microbial dysbiosis, and structural droopiness that hypermobile individuals often face. Lisa offers insights on contributing factors such as the autonomic nervous system and mast cell activation, and shares practical advice for lifestyle changes, nutritional strategies, and supplements that can help manage these conditions. The episode highlights the importance of mindful eating, movement practices, and vagus nerve activation for improving gut health in hypermobile individuals.   Highlights of this episode include: 00:35 Meet Lisa Sherman: Expert on Bendy Bellies 01:39 Understanding Digestive Issues in Hypermobile People 02:56 Prevalence and Impact of GI Issues 04:00 Common GI Conditions in the Bendy Population 07:03 Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders (FGIDS) 08:54 The Role of the Nervous System in Digestion 11:14 Hypermobile Gut and Hypomotility 18:19 Testing and Treating Gut Motility Issues 28:54 The Bendy, Itchy, and Dizzy Trifecta 37:57 Understanding Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders 39:24 Practical Tips for Gut Health 43:44 The Importance of Protein and Collagen 49:15 Navigating Histamine and FODMAPs 56:47 Supplements and Prokinetics 01:04:15 Vagus Nerve Stimulation and Lifestyle Changes 01:08:53 Research and Future Directions 01:10:25 Conclusion and Contact Information

In this episode of Zebra Talks, Libby welcomes biomechanics expert Jules Mitchell to discuss the science of stretching and connective tissue behavior, particularly in the context of hypermobility syndromes. Jules provides insights from her extensive research and professional experience, addressing common misconceptions about stretching, the adaptive capabilities of connective tissue, and how people with hypermobility can safely engage in physical activities. The discussion includes the impact of mechanical tension on tissue adaptation, the importance of understanding individual responses to stretching, and the role of exercise science in improving joint stability and resilience. Jules, who is also the author of 'Yoga Biomechanics Stretching Redefined' and an educator of yoga teachers worldwide, shares valuable perspectives on the interplay between biomechanics and yoga practices, offering practical advice for both practitioners and instructors. 00:35 Meet Jules Mitchell: Yoga Biomechanics Expert 02:18 Jules' Journey into Stretching Research 04:55 Understanding Connective Tissue and Hypermobility 12:46 The Science of Stretching and Tissue Adaptation 18:37 Practical Advice for Bendy People 40:22 Final Thoughts and Resources

In this Zebra Talks episode, host Dr. Libby Hinsley interviews Alanna Trzcinski, host of the Endo Battery Podcast and president of EndoVillage. The episode delves into Alanna's journey with endometriosis, advocacy work, and the surprising intersections with hypermobility syndromes. Alanna sheds light on the challenges of living with both conditions, the importance of excision surgery for endometriosis, and the nuanced nature of these overlapping chronic illnesses. The two discuss the critical role of multidisciplinary care, the need for increased research, and the psychological aspects of managing chronic pain. Listeners will gain valuable insights into the complexity of these conditions and the importance of informed, holistic care. Highlights of this episode include:  00:35 Meet Alanna Trzcinski: Advocate for Endometriosis Awareness 02:24 Alana's Personal Journey with Endometriosis 05:21 Understanding Endometriosis: Definitions and Misconceptions 07:25 The Overlap Between Endometriosis and Hypermobility Syndromes 11:33 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Endometriosis 15:18 Effective Management and Treatment Options 18:54 The Importance of Multidisciplinary Care 24:54 Surgical Treatments: Excision vs. Ablation 31:20 Living with Endometriosis and Hypermobility 34:08 Advocacy and Future Research 40:39 Final Thoughts and Resources

This episode of Zebra Talks features a discussion with Naomi Bauer, a Doctor of Physical Therapy with personal and professional experience in treating dysautonomia and Long COVID. Hosted by Dr. Libby Hinsley, they explore the challenges and management strategies for those living with hypermobility syndromes, focusing on the overlap between long COVID, dysautonomia, and hypermobility. Naomi shares her journey from a healthcare professional to a patient after developing long COVID dysautonomia herself and highlights the importance of understanding personal energy management through pacing and the 50 percent rule. The conversation also addresses potential underlying connections between hypermobility and the increased risk of developing long COVID, emphasizing the significance of social support, proactive resting, and setting boundaries for energy use.  Highlights of this episode include: 00:32 Meet Naomi Bauer: A Journey from PT to Long COVID Survivor 01:42 Exploring the Intersection of Long COVID and Hypermobility Syndromes 01:56 Naomi's Personal Battle with Long COVID and Suspected Hypermobility 05:55 The Complex World of Dysautonomia: From POTS to Long COVID 14:28 The Link Between Hypermobility Syndromes and Long COVID 23:47 Managing Long COVID and Hypermobility: Strategies for Recovery 41:24 Concluding Thoughts and Finding Support

In this episode of the Zebra Talks podcast, host Libby Hinsley interviews Megan Beach Gomes, a specialized pelvic health physical therapist focusing on pelvic pain and perinatal care. She discusses her journey into specializing in pelvic health and the importance of physical therapy for pregnant and postpartum individuals, especially those dealing with hypermobility. Gomes highlights the key role of the hormone relaxin during pregnancy and its effects on the body's mobility, the challenges hypermobile individuals may face during and after pregnancy, and provides practical advice and exercises to help manage symptoms. Gomes emphasizes the need for comprehensive care, including pelvic support belts, specific exercises, and how to deal with issues such as diastasis recti postpartum. She also touches on finding specialized help through resources like the EDS Society, the importance of patient advocacy, and options like telehealth for individuals with limited access to specialized care. Highlights of this episode include:  - Welcome to Zebra Talks: Introducing Megan Beach Gomes - Journey into Pelvic Health: Megan's Story - Understanding Hypermobility in Pregnancy - Managing Pregnancy Symptoms for the Hypermobile - Navigating Labor and Delivery with Hypermobility - Preparation and Advocacy for Hypermobile Pregnant Persons - Pregnancy Wellness Tips for the Hypermobile - Ergonomic Supports for Comfortable Sitting - Exercise Tips for Pregnancy with Increased Laxity - Hip Hinge: The Ultimate Exercise for Pregnancy - Managing Pelvic Girdle Pain with Simple Adjustments - Postpartum Considerations for the Bendy Population - Navigating Postpartum Recovery: Scar Care and Core Support - Addressing Diastasis Recti in Postpartum Recovery - Preventing and Managing Mommy Thumb Postpartum - Finding Specialized Perinatal Physical Therapy