Movement and Performance of New Mexico

05/04/2023

5 evidence-based strategies to manage Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS):

1. Increase fluid and salt intake: This is the first line of treatment for POTS. Increasing fluid and salt intake can help maintain blood volume and prevent hypotension. Patients are usually advised to drink 2-3 liters of fluids per day and consume 5-10 grams of salt per day.

2. Exercise: Exercise is an important part of POTS management. Exercise programs that include aerobic and resistance training have been found to improve symptoms and quality of life in POTS patients. It is important to start with low-intensity exercise and gradually increase intensity and duration.

3. Compression garments: Compression garments such as stockings or abdominal binders can improve blood flow and prevent blood pooling in the legs. They are particularly helpful when standing for long periods of time. It is worth discussing with your provider custom garments for a more comfortable fit.

4. Medications: Certain medications can be used to manage POTS symptoms, such as midodrine, fludrocortisone, and beta blockers. These medications work by increasing blood volume, constricting blood vessels, or slowing the heart rate.

5. Lifestyle modifications: POTS patients are advised to avoid triggers that can worsen symptoms, such as standing for long periods of time, hot environments, and large meals. They are also advised to maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid caffeine and alcohol.

It is important to consult with a healthcare professional for a comprehensive evaluation and individualized treatment plan.

05/02/2023

It is important to work with a healthcare provider who is familiar with EDS and can recommend the appropriate braces and splints for your specific needs. In addition to braces and splints, physical therapy and other forms of exercise can also be helpful in managing joint instability and reducing pain in people with EDS.

1. Customization: Splints should be custom-made to fit the individual's unique anatomy and accommodate any joint hypermobility and soft tissue laxity present in EDS patients.

2. Material Selection: Splints should be made from materials that are non-irritating to the skin and do not cause allergic reactions or dermatitis. Materials that are commonly used in splinting for EDS patients include thermoplastics, neoprene, and padded foam.

3. Joint Support: Splints should provide adequate joint support to prevent subluxations or dislocations, while still allowing for a range of motion that does not exacerbate joint pain.

4. Gradual Progression: Splinting should be introduced gradually, to allow EDS patients to adjust to the support and avoid muscle atrophy or dependency.

5. Education: Patients should be educated on proper splint use, including how to put on and take off the splint, how long to wear it for, and how to perform exercises to maintain joint mobility and strength.

04/30/2023

Pacing is a technique that involves balancing activity and rest to manage chronic pain. The goal is to avoid overactivity, which can exacerbate pain, while also avoiding underactivity, which can lead to deconditioning and increased pain over times. Work smarter not harder so you can spend time on the activities you enjoy.

04/20/2023

Pain is complex and treatment should be individualized.

04/19/2023

04/19/2023