Navigating Hypermobility and Fibromyalgia with Dr. Melissa Koehl

Zebra Talks: Living Your Best Bendy Life

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