Mayo Clinic Health Manager
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By Mayo Clinic staffPreventing injuries and protecting your skin and joints are a big part of self-care for Ehlers-Danlos syndrome. Here are a few suggestions:
- Avoid injury. Avoid contact sports and other activities that increase your risk of injury.
- Use protective gear. If you have a toddler or young child with severe EDS, you might consider dressing him or her with protective clothing, guards or padding to protect from tumbles and falls, especially while he or she is learning to walk and move around.
- Reduce the clutter. To prevent falls and injuries at home, keep walkways and doorways clear of clutter. Avoid loose rugs and electric cords, which can increase your risk of tripping and falling.
- Use assistive devices. A number of common devices can help decrease stress on your joints, such as jar openers, utensils with wide handles, and long-handled combs or bath sponges.
- Wear sunscreen. Regular use of sunscreen when you're exposed to the sun may help reduce premature aging of your skin.