Hypermobility & Ehlers‑Danlos Syndrome Podiatry in Albany Creek
Living with Hypermobility or Ehlers‑Danlos Syndrome? We Can Help.
Hypermobility and Ehlers‑Danlos Syndrome (EDS) are connective tissue conditions that can significantly impact the way your feet and legs function.
At My Family Podiatry in Albany Creek, our team has experience supporting patients with hypermobility syndromes and EDS, and we are proud to be listed on the International Ehlers‑Danlos Society’s Healthcare Professional Directory.
We understand how these conditions can cause pain, instability and fatigue, and we tailor treatments to help you stay active and comfortable.
WHAT IS HYPERMOBILITY?
Hypermobility refers to joints that move beyond the typical range of motion. For some people, this extra flexibility causes no issues at all. For others, it can lead to pain, joint instability, fatigue, and recurrent injuries.
Hypermobility is often inherited and may exist on its own or as part of a broader condition. When hypermobility begins to cause symptoms or interfere with daily life, it may fall under what is known as a Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD).
Common features associated with symptomatic hypermobility include:
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Joint pain or aching, particularly after activity
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Frequent sprains, strains, or joint subluxations
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Muscle fatigue or weakness
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Poor balance or coordination
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Flat feet or collapsing arches
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Difficulty tolerating prolonged standing or walking
Hypermobility is more than simply being “double-jointed.” When symptoms are present, a targeted assessment with a health professional such as a podiatrist can help identify contributing factors and guide appropriate management.
WHAT IS EHLERS-DANLOS SYNDROME?
Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome is a group of genetic connective tissue disorders characterised by joint hypermobility, tissue fragility, and altered collagen structure. There are several recognised subtypes of EDS.
Hypermobile Ehlers–Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) is the most common form. It involves generalised joint hypermobility along with additional features such as chronic pain, fatigue, and reduced joint stability.
Some people with hEDS may also experience associated symptoms affecting other body systems, such as digestive issues, autonomic symptoms, or cardiovascular features. These vary widely between individuals and are not present in every case.
From a podiatry perspective, the feet and lower limbs are often significantly affected because:
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Ligaments are more elastic, reducing joint stability
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Muscles must work harder to control movement, leading to fatigue and overuse injuries
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The arches may flatten or collapse, contributing to pronation and foot pain
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Altered biomechanics can lead to calluses, corns, and painful pressure areas
Management of hEDS is typically multidisciplinary. A comprehensive plan may include podiatry, physiotherapy, and medical input, with a strong focus on stability, load management, and long-term function rather than flexibility.
COMMON FOOT ISSUES WITH HYPERMOBILITY AND EDS
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Plantar fasciitis and heel pain: Increased tissue stress from foot position can overload the plantar fascia.
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Ankle sprains or recurrent sprains: Ligament laxity predisposes joints to instability.
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Metatarsalgia and forefoot pain: Excessive pressure on the balls of your feet leads to pain. This can also be due to the foot splaying and squashing in shoes.
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Calluses, corns, bunions and hammertoes: Poor foot mechanics cause abnormal wear and deformities.
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Fatigue and aching: Feet often tire quickly due to extra demands on muscles and tendons.
WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR APPOINTMENT
We aim to make your appointment thorough, informative and supportive. Here’s what typically happens:
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History & Symptom Review: We discuss your medical history, daily activities and any specific concerns about pain or instability.
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Joint Range & Muscle Testing: We assess flexibility and strength while you are sitting, to understand how hypermobility affects individual joints.
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Posture & Alignment Assessment: We look at how your foot, ankle, knee and hip align while you are standing.
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Gait Analysis: We observe you walking both barefoot and in your normal shoes to identify abnormal movement patterns and pressure areas. We also evaluate the wear patterns on your footwear. Please bring the shoes you wear most often.
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Footwear & Orthotic Discussion: Based on our assessment, we may recommend certain shoe styles, features, modifications or custom orthotics.
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Treatment Plan: Together we develop a personalised plan, which may include orthotics, strengthening exercises, soft tissue therapy (such as shockwave therapy), footwear modifications, or referral to other health professionals. Stretching is not typically prescribed for hypermobile individuals, but strengthening and stability exercises are emphasised.
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Education & Reports: We provide detailed explanations of your lower‑limb mechanics, answer your questions and supply reports for your GP or NDIS if needed.
WHY CHOOSE MY FAMILY PODIATRY?
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Experienced with hypermobility & EDS: We are listed on the Ehlers‑Danlos Society’s Healthcare Professional Directory, ensuring you’re in knowledgeable hands.
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Collaborative care: We work alongside physiotherapists, GPs, and other specialists to address the wide‑ranging effects of connective tissue disorders.
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Individualised approach: Every treatment plan is customised, focusing on functional improvement, injury prevention and day‑to‑day comfort.
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Convenient North Brisbane location: Our clinic is located in the heart of Albany Creek, easily accessible from North Brisbane suburbs.
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Modern facilities: We use up‑to‑date equipment and evidence‑based techniques to optimise outcomes.
FAQS
What happens during a podiatry appointment for hypermobility or EDS?
Our podiatrist will review your medical history, assess joint range and strength, analyse your posture and walking pattern, evaluate your footwear and develop a personalised treatment plan. You will also receive education about your foot mechanics and a report if needed.
Do I need to bring anything to my appointment?
Yes, please bring the shoes you wear most often (work, sport and casual). We will evaluate how these shoes support your feet and may recommend modifications, custom orthotics or new footwear.
Are orthotics recommended for hypermobility or EDS?
Custom orthotics can be helpful to support the arches, reduce strain on joints and improve foot stability. They are tailored to your unique foot structure and activity needs.
Will stretching help?
Stretching is generally not advised for hypermobile individuals. Instead, strengthening and stability exercises are emphasised to improve joint control and reduce pain.
Do I need a referral to see a podiatrist?
No referral is necessary. However, if you have a Chronic Disease Management (CDM) or Enhanced Primary Care (EPC) plan from your GP, DVA or Work Cover referral, please bring these with you.
Are you listed on the Ehlers‑Danlos Society healthcare directory?
Yes, My Family Podiatry is listed on the Ehlers‑Danlos Society’s Healthcare Professional Directory, which recognises clinicians experienced in managing EDS.