23 Childhood Clues That Prove You Grew Up with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—Stop Ignoring Them! - Abbey Badges
23 Childhood Clues That Prove You Grew Up with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—Stop Ignoring Them!
23 Childhood Clues That Prove You Grew Up with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome—Stop Ignoring Them!
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is often misunderstood, especially when it’s diagnosed in childhood rather than adulthood. Many people dismiss early body signals—like hypermobile joints, frequent joint dislocations, or chronic fatigue—as “just being flexible” or “just active.” But these aren’t just quirks; they’re key clues. Recognizing these childhood signs can change your life. If you’re warming up easily, bruising often, or struggling with chronic pain, it’s time to listen to your body. This article outlines 23 childhood red flags that may point to EDS—and why you should stop ignoring them.
Understanding the Context
What Is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Anyway?
Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome is a group of rare connective tissue disorders characterized by joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility. While it spans 13 different types, children often show patterns of joint hypermobility, recurrent injuries, and subtle yet telling physical traits. Because adult symptoms like chronic pain or autoimmunity may dominate adult narratives, childhood signs are frequently overlooked.
23 Childhood Clues That Point to EDS
Key Insights
1. Joints That “Give Too Easily”
Hyper flexible joints that bend far beyond normal range and dislocate or subluxate frequently—even without trauma.
2. Frequent Tripping or Falling
Despite no history of injuries, frequent falls due to unstable joints can feel normal growing up—but they’re often warning signs.
3. Chronic Hypermobility in Fingers, Thumbs, and Elbows
Constantly stretching hands to touch your forearm or spinning actively; joints feel “loose” as early as toddlerhood.
4. Joint Pain Not Linked to Overexertion
Persistent aches without clear cause, especially after play or mild activities—distinct from typical growing pains.
5. Hyperextended Knees and Ankles That “Never Hurt”
Ligaments lax enough to allow knees to bend past 90 degrees comfortably and consistently.
Final Thoughts
6. Easy Bruising or Skin That Stretches
Sensitive skin that stretches over bony prominences or bruises appear easily—skin elasticity feels different from peers.
7. Delayed Motor Milestones Involving Core Strength
Slower development of crawling, walking, or balance, tied to connective tissue laxity supporting joints.
8. Constant Joint Instability Without Injury
Joints feel like they “give way” during everyday actions—even stepping off a step or schooling.
9. Repeated Finger “popping” or crepitus
Joints crack or pop regularly, often with pain, indicating hypermobile connective tissue.
10. Easy Sprain-Like Injuries in Childhood
Twisting an ankle or wrist leads to dislocation or severe sprains far more often than expected.
11. Skin That Stretches Back After Stretching
Stretching your skin yields time-stretch effects—visible thin skin and elasticity unlike other children.
12. Poor Scapular Control (winging shoulders or drooping arms)
Shoulder blades don’t stabilize well, making arm or hand posture inconsistent.
13. Loose Teeth That Shift or Feel Loose
Early loosening of baby teeth or crowded, shifting permanent teeth tied to joint weakness.
14. Chronic Fatigue and Low Muscle Tone
Despite active play, poor endurance and weak core control hint at connective tissue impact.
15. Easy Hyperextension Injuries in Sports or Play
Taking excessive risk in pulling, twisting, or stretching—without warning injuries.
