Revising the Hypermobile EDS Criteria with Dr. Pradeep Chopra (Ep 154)

In this compelling episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein is joined by her longtime mentor and internationally respected EDS expert, Dr. Pradeep Chopra. Together, they tackle some of the most frustrating—and frequently misunderstood—questions surrounding hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS). From major flaws in the 2017 diagnostic criteria to the hidden surgical risks that could lead to serious complications like CCI (craniocervical instability), this conversation dives deep into clinical insights and lived experience. Listeners will also hear the surprising story of how Dr. Chopra helped inspire Dr. Bluestein to open her own practice. Whether you're a patient, parent, or provider, this episode just might change how you see joint hypermobility and connective tissue disorders forever.

Takeaways

Why men and boys may be getting overlooked by the current EDS diagnostic model
The difference between dislocations and subluxations—and why that matters
A surprising source of CCI: what your dentist, surgeon, and anesthesiologist may not know
The 2017 criteria: well-meaning, but are they dangerously outdated?
What every hypermobile patient should bring to their next surgery (yes, it’s a hack)

Want to follow along? Find the episode transcript here.

References:

Episode 70: https://youtu.be/BoRyQh12X2c

Episode 71: https://youtu.be/yDT3JTzfiJk

Episode 72: https://youtu.be/CYhnKkVjIxM

Episode 73: https://youtu.be/2OxtZGNswfo

Episode 77: https://youtu.be/d9A1aJB5GRo

Episode 151: https://youtu.be/ho0rRcjUobI

Perioperative Care in Patients with EDS by Linda Bluestein & Pradeep Chopra: https://www.scirp.org/journal/paperinformation?paperid=97524

Diagnostic Criteria: https://www.bendybodiespodcast.com/p/diagnostic-criteria-checklist/

The Incidence of Misdiagnosis in Patients with EDS: https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/12/6/698

Living Well with Orthostatic Intolerance by Peter C. Rowe: https://www.amazon.com/shop/hypermobilitymd/list/2LQLPARJY3CDS?linkCode=sl2&tag=onamzlindablu-20&ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ofs_mixed_d