EDS and POTS: What You Need to Know About These Often Overlooked Causes of Chronic Pain

Introduction

At Chicago Pain Medicine Center, we know that chronic pain is not always explained by a single injury or joint problem. Some patients experience widespread pain, fatigue, dizziness, and rapid heartbeat that do not improve with traditional treatments.

Two conditions that are frequently missed — yet have a major impact on quality of life — are Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Our goal is to help you understand what might be happening in your body and what paths toward relief may be available.

What is EDS?

EDS is a group of hereditary disorders that affect connective tissue — the supportive structure for joints, skin, and blood vessels.

Common symptoms include:

• Joint hypermobility (joints that move beyond the normal range)

• Frequent sprains or dislocations

• Chronic joint and muscle pain

• Easy bruising and slow-healing injuries

• Persistent fatigue

While there is no cure, many patients can improve stability and reduce pain with specialized physical therapy, joint protection strategies, and comprehensive pain management.

What is POTS?

POTS is a form of autonomic nervous system dysfunction that affects circulation and heart rate.

A key feature:

A heart rate increase of 30 beats per minute or more within 10 minutes of standing — without significant drop in blood pressure.

Symptoms often include:

• Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting

• Rapid heartbeat with standing

• Headaches

• “Brain fog”

• Exercise intolerance and extreme fatigue

Although POTS affects millions of people, it continues to be widely underdiagnosed.

Why do EDS and POTS often occur together?

Research and clinical experience suggest a clear connection:

Weakened connective tissue in EDS may impair blood vessel function, leading to poor venous return when standing. The body compensates with a rapid heart rate — a hallmark of POTS.

Patients often experience both pain and autonomic symptoms, and identifying their relationship can change the course of treatment.

How do these conditions affect daily life?

Patients may say:

“When I stand up, my heart races — and everything hurts.”

Other common experiences:

• Feeling unstable or “unsupported” in the joints

• Fatigue out of proportion with activity

• Being told for years that symptoms are “just anxiety”

• Trials of many medications with no lasting improvement

When evaluated properly, patients finally understand the root of their symptoms — and can move forward with a personalized plan.

Treatment Options

For EDS

• Physical therapy focused on joint stabilization and neuromuscular control

• Activity modification and pacing

• Education on joint protection

• Targeted interventional pain procedures, when appropriate

For POTS

• Increased hydration and salt intake (when medically appropriate)

• Compression garments

• A structured exercise program that begins in seated or reclined positions

• Sleep and stress management

• Medications when needed

Our approach in pain medicine

Pain is never just physical — it affects energy, function, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Our treatment plans are holistic, integrating:

✔ Functional rehabilitation

✔ Pain-focused medical care

✔ Education and lifestyle support

We take the time to listen to your full story, not just one symptom.

Topical Cannabis Compounds: A Complementary Tool for Pain Relief

Some of our patients have reported localized pain relief using topical products containing cannabidiol (CBD) and occasionally low-dose Delta-9-THC, such as the Bison Botanics salves and roll-ons featured in our clinic blog.

What patients should know:

How topical cannabis works

• It is applied to the skin and acts only in the area where it’s used

• It does not produce the “high” associated with inhaled or ingested THC

• Effects vary, but some patients notice relief in painful or swollen joints

When this may be helpful

• Pain from superficial joints or tendons

• Localized inflammation or muscle tenderness

• When patients prefer to avoid systemic side effects from oral medications

Important considerations

• Always discuss products with us before using them — especially if you are part of the Illinois Medical Cannabis Program or undergo drug testing

• Bring product details or a Certificate of Analysis so we can review safety and cannabinoid content

• Cannabis topicals are not a replacement for a complete pain plan→ They may be a useful adjunct when combined with rehabilitation, medical care, and lifestyle strategies

Our medical team will help determine whether this option fits into your individualized plan for pain relief.

What This Means for Our Patients

If you are experiencing:

✅ Pain without a clear explanation

✅ Dizziness or rapid heartbeat when standing

✅ Fatigue that limits your daily life

✅ Joint instability or frequent sprains

We are here to help you feel heard, understood, and supported.

At Chicago Pain Medicine Center, we perform a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether EDS, POTS, or related conditions may be contributing to your symptoms — and we build a plan that matches your needs and goals.

If you have questions about managing your pain or want to explore personalized treatment options, schedule an appointment with our specialists at Chicago Pain Medicine. We’re here to support your recovery every step of the way!