Specialist trauma Informed treatment for: Bone Health Problems Chondromalacia, Ehlers-Danos, Osgood - Schlatter, Sheuermann's, Scoliosis : Reading & London. and web clinics across the UK by arrangement

Ehlers – Danos Syndrome 

A group of inherited connective tissue disorders affecting collagen, characterised by joint hypermobility, tissue fragility, and widespread musculoskeletal instability, often with chronic pain and multisystem involvement (1)

Symptomatic Hypermobility /Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders

This is an emerging field with much research, and many of my clients fall into this group.

See References 21 & 22 

Management

Management is focused on improving joint stability, movement control, and strength while avoiding excessive strain on fragile tissues. Education, pacing, and proprioceptive training are central, alongside multidisciplinary support for pain, fatigue, and function. Psychological support and self-management strategies are often important due to the long-term and systemic nature of the condition.(6)

Genetics

EDS is a genetic connective tissue disorder caused by mutations affecting collagen structure (e.g. COL1A1, COL3A1, COL5A1), with autosomal dominant or recessive inheritance depending on subtype. (11)

Chondromalacia

A condition involving irritation, softening, or degeneration of cartilage beneath the kneecap, typically linked to altered biomechanics, overload, or maltracking, causing anterior knee pain and reduced load tolerance.(2)

Management

Conservative treatment centres on exercise-based rehabilitation to improve strength, alignment, and movement patterns, particularly around the hip and knee. Load management, activity modification, and gradual return to activity are key to reducing symptoms. Education and addressing contributing biomechanical factors support longer-term outcomes. (7)

Genetics

No single genetic cause is identified, but patellofemoral pain is recognised as multifactorial, with emerging evidence for genetic influences on pain sensitivity and tissue response rather than structure alone. (12)

Osgood – Schlatter Disease

A traction-related condition in growing adolescents where repetitive strain from the patellar tendon causes pain, swelling, and prominence at the tibial tuberosity during periods of rapid growth.(3)

Management

Management is typically self-limiting and focuses on reducing aggravating activities during painful phases while maintaining general activity levels where possible. Stretching, strengthening, and gradual load reintroduction support recovery as growth stabilises. Education and reassurance are important to reduce fear and maintain participation.(8)

Genetics

Primarily a mechanical and growth-related condition, with limited evidence for direct genetic causation, though familial patterns suggest possible inherited susceptibility. (13)

Sheuermann’s Disease

A developmental spinal condition causing structural thoracic kyphosis due to vertebral wedging during growth, leading to a more rigid, rounded upper back posture.(4)

Management

Conservative management includes postural education, spinal mobility work, and strengthening to support alignment and reduce discomfort. In growing individuals, monitoring and, in some cases, bracing may be considered to limit progression. Activity and exercise are encouraged to maintain function and spinal health.(9)

Genetics

Scheuermann’s disease shows evidence of genetic influence, with familial patterns suggesting inherited factors affecting vertebral growth and spinal development, although no single causative gene has been identified.(14)

Scoliosis 

A three-dimensional spinal deformity involving lateral curvature and vertebral rotation, with varying degrees of structural change, postural adaptation, and potential functional impact.(5)

Management

Non-surgical management includes observation, exercise-based approaches, and condition-specific rehabilitation aimed at improving posture, strength, and function. In some cases, bracing is used during growth to limit curve progression. Ongoing monitoring and education support long-term management and quality of life. (10)

Genetics

A complex polygenic condition with strong genetic contribution, involving multiple genes affecting spinal growth and development.(15)