EDSRF FLAGSHIP PROJECT:

Prospective study of efficacy of a multidisciplinary musculoskeletal approach in increasing functionality and decreasing symptom frequency and severity in EDS

Project description:

At PRISM Spine and Joint, Dr. Zingman is pioneering a unique, multidisciplinary treatment approach for EDS/HSD treatment. Using a combination of osteopathic manipulation, craniosacral and myofascial techniques, tailored physical therapy, muscle activation techniques, corrective integrative neurokinetics, and more, she has achieved significant gains for her EDS/HSD patients. These include better functionality (e.g., being able to go back to work after a period of disability; being able to walk unaided) and reduced symptom frequency and severity (e.g., less pain, less dizziness, improved gait). This approach also includes addressing potential sources of inflammation, including diet, immune dysfunction, autonomic nervous system dysfunction, as well as gut health. EDSRF will conduct a prospective study of the effectiveness of this approach, enrolling at least 100 EDS patients and measuring their progress over 12 months. Improvement will be assessed using the outcome measures described above, which will include health-related quality of life (HRQoL) measures and clinical assessments. The findings of the study will address functional status of participants, improvements in symptoms of craniocervical and atlantoaxial instability, and will be published in top journals and shared widely at medical conferences. They will also be discussed in EDSRF teaching resources for healthcare professionals. Expected duration: 1 year.

Patient impact:

There are currently very few treatment options that have proved effective at increasing functionality and reducing symptoms in EDS/HSD patients. This study is therefore doubly important. First, it codifies and explains a new, successful treatment approach that is currently implemented solely at PRISM. Second, this evidence can be used to train providers across multiple medical disciplines to better care for patients with EDS/HSD. It also will help convince insurance companies to support and cover (name of this integrated treatment approach).