Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Treatment

in Dallas, Fort Worth: Comprehensive EDS Care

Last Updated: October 23, 2025
Publication Date: October 23, 2025
Medical Review: This article was medically reviewed by Howard Cohen, MD, Board Certified in Pain Medicine, Psychiatry, Addiction Medicine, Geriatric Psychiatry, and Psychosomatic Medicine. Dr. Cohen is listed in theEhlers-Danlos Society Healthcare Professional Directory as a recognized EDS specialist.

Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) doesn't have to mean accepting a life of chronic pain and limited mobility. At Mind + Body Medicine in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Dr. Howard Cohen provides specialized, comprehensive treatment for EDS patients throughout Texas, offering hope through innovative therapies and personalized care plans that address both the physical and psychological aspects of this complex connective tissue disorder.

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About Dr. Howard Cohen:
Leading EDS Specialist in Dallas

Dr. Howard Cohen brings over 35 years of medical experience to EDS treatment, with specialized expertise in neuropsychopharmacology and complex pain management. As one of the few physicians in North Texas listed in the official Ehlers-Danlos Society Healthcare Professional Directory, Dr. Cohen has dedicated significant portions of his practice to understanding and treating this challenging condition.

Medical Credentials and Training

  • Medical Degree: University of Louisville School of Medicine (1985)
  • Residency: Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center (1987-1989)
  • Board Certifications:
    • American Board of Pain Medicine
    • American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (Psychiatry)
    • American Board of Addiction Medicine
    • American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (Geriatric Psychiatry)
    • American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology (Psychosomatic Medicine)

EDS Treatment Experience

Dr. Cohen has been treating EDS patients for over two decades, developing specialized protocols that address the unique challenges of this connective tissue disorder. His multidisciplinary approach combines traditional pain management with cutting-edge neuropsychopharmacology techniques.

“In my 20+ years of treating EDS patients, I’ve learned that successful outcomes require addressing not just the physical symptoms, but the psychological impact and functional limitations that come with this complex condition. Our Intensive Outpatient Pain Program was specifically designed with EDS patients in mind.”
— Dr. Howard Cohen, MD

Patient Success Stories

Patients treated through the Intensive Outpatient Pain Program often report significant improvements in function, mobility, and overall quality of life. Many individuals with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) have achieved meaningful pain reduction and regained the ability to participate more fully in daily activities through this comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach.

At my first appointment, Dr. Cohen was able to diagnose me with EDS. He knew within seconds that I had it but he still spent the next 2 hours confirming his diagnosis by talking with me and asking questions. He never once made me feel like I was stupid and making up my symptoms like nearly every other doctor I’ve seen. Dr. Cohen is extremely professional and knowledgeable. He has a lot of empathy and actually cares about his patients and finding a treatment plan that works for them. I highly recommend Dr. Cohen for anyone struggling to find a diagnosis and has had doctors dismiss their symptoms.

— Ellie

Treatment Outcomes Data

The practice welcomes approximately 10 new patients each week, with about 80% diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS). These patients benefit from customized, evidence-based pain management strategies designed to improve function, reduce pain, and enhance long-term outcomes.

What is Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome?

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome encompasses a group of 13 inherited connective tissue disorders that affect collagen production throughout the body. EDS affects approximately 1 in 5,000 people worldwide, with hypermobile EDS (hEDS) being the most common type.1

These genetic conditions impact the body's ability to produce strong, stable collagen—the protein that provides structure to skin, joints, blood vessels, and organs. When collagen is defective or insufficient, it leads to the hallmark symptoms of joint hypermobility, skin hyperextensibility, and tissue fragility that characterize EDS.

Types of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

The 13 recognized types of EDS vary significantly in severity and symptoms:

Major Types:

  • Hypermobile EDS (hEDS): The most common form, characterized by joint hypermobility and chronic pain
  • Classical EDS: Features hyperextensible skin and atrophic scarring
  • Vascular EDS: The most serious type, affecting blood vessels and organs
  • Kyphoscoliotic EDS: Involves severe muscle weakness and spinal curvature
  • Arthrochalasia EDS: Characterized by severe joint hypermobility and congenital hip dislocation

Rare Types:

  • Dermatosparaxis EDS (dEDS): Severe skin fragility and sagging
  • Brittle Cornea Syndrome (BCS): Affects the eyes with thin corneas and hearing loss
  • Classical-like EDS (clEDS): Similar to classical but without atrophic scarring
  • Cardiac-valvular EDS (cvEDS): Progressive cardiac valve problems
  • Myopathic EDS (mEDS): Muscle weakness and atrophy
  • Periodontal EDS (pEDS): Severe gum disease and tooth loss
  • Musculocontractural EDS (mcEDS): Joint contractures and muscle weakness
  • Spondylodysplastic EDS (spEDS): Short stature and skeletal abnormalities

Recognizing EDS Symptoms

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome presents with a wide range of symptoms that can significantly impact daily life. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment planning.

Joint and Musculoskeletal Symptoms

  • Joint hypermobility and frequent dislocations
  • Chronic joint and muscle pain
  • Joint instability and weakness
  • Easy bruising and slow wound healing
  • Muscle fatigue and weakness
  • Chronic headaches and migraines

Skin and Tissue Manifestations

  • Hyperextensible, velvety skin texture
  • Fragile skin that tears easily
  • Atrophic scarring and poor wound healing
  • Stretch marks at an early age
  • Molluscoid pseudotumors over pressure points

Systemic Complications

EDS can affect multiple body systems, leading to complications such as:

  • Cardiovascular issues including mitral valve prolapse
  • Gastrointestinal problems like gastroparesis
  • Autonomic dysfunction and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome)
  • Anxiety and depression related to chronic pain
  • Sleep disturbances and chronic fatigue 2

Comprehensive EDS Treatment Options in Dallas

At Mind + Body Medicine, we understand that effective EDS treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach that addresses the complex nature of this condition. Our Intensive Outpatient Pain Program offers the most comprehensive EDS treatment available in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Intensive Outpatient Pain Program for EDS

Our specialized 28-day program provides 3-5 days per week of intensive care, combining cutting-edge therapies with traditional pain management approaches. This comprehensive program is specifically designed for EDS patients who need more than conventional treatment options.

Core Program Components

Pain Reprocessing Therapy (PRT)

This innovative approach helps retrain the brain's response to pain signals, particularly beneficial for EDS patients experiencing central sensitization and chronic pain amplification.

Cognitive Behavioral Training (CBT)

Group-based CBT sessions provide EDS patients with essential coping strategies for managing the psychological aspects of chronic pain and disability.

VR Biofeedback

Virtual reality biofeedback sessions teach patients to control physiological functions like heart rate and muscle tension, reducing pain and stress responses.

Medical Yoga and Movement Therapy

Specially adapted yoga practices focus on joint stability and gentle strengthening without exacerbating hypermobility.

Neuroplasticity Training

Targeted exercises help rewire pain pathways in the brain, reducing the perception of chronic pain over time.

Advanced Treatment Modalities

Ketamine Infusion Therapy

For EDS patients with treatment-resistant pain, ketamine infusions can provide significant relief by targeting NMDA receptors involved in pain processing. Research published in the Journal of Clinical Pharmacology demonstrates ketamine's efficacy for chronic pain conditions.3

Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS)

Non-invasive brain stimulation therapy that can help reduce chronic pain and associated depression in EDS patients.

Magnetic Peripheral Nerve Stimulation (mPNS)

Targeted nerve stimulation therapy for localized pain relief in specific joints or muscle groups.

Treatment Risks and Considerations

Important Safety Information:

All treatments carry potential risks and side effects. Common considerations for EDS patients include:

  • Ketamine therapy may cause temporary dissociation, nausea, or blood pressure changes
  • TMS may cause headache or scalp discomfort in some patients
  • Physical therapy must be carefully modified to avoid joint hyperextension
  • Some patients may experience temporary symptom flare-ups during initial treatment phases

Success Rates and Realistic Expectations:

While many patients experience significant improvement, individual results vary. Treatment typically requires 4-8 weeks to show meaningful benefits, with some patients requiring ongoing maintenance therapy.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy forms the cornerstone of EDS management, focusing on:

  • Joint stabilization exercises
  • Proprioceptive training
  • Core strengthening without hyperextension
  • Activity pacing and energy conservation
  • Assistive device training when appropriate

Medication Management

Our neuropsychopharmacology approach includes:

  • Non-opioid pain medications
  • Neuropathic pain treatments
  • Anti-inflammatory medications
  • Supplements for collagen support
  • Medications for associated conditions like POTS or gastroparesis

Professional Affiliations
& Recognition

    • American Academy of Pain Medicine

    • American Psychiatric Association

    • American Society of Addiction Medicine

    • International Association for the Study of Pain

    • 1985 High Score, University of Louisville School of Medicine, National

    •  Board of Medical Examiners Part II (Psychiatry) : 99th percentile

    • 1986 Top Score, University of Texas Southwestern Medical School

    •  Residency Program, US Psychiatry Residents In-Training Exam

    •  (PRITE) : 99th percentile 

    • 1994 Fellow, American College of Pain Medicine

    • 1995 Physician Recognition Award, American Medical Association

    • 1999 Director “Best Pain Management Program”, Texas Pain Medicine

    •  Clinic - D Magazine

    • 2002 SAMHSA Buprenorphine Waiver

    • 2006 “Best Doctors in Dallas” Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2007 “Best Doctors in Dallas” Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2008 American Pain Society Center of Excellence Award, Associate

    •  Director, Productive Rehabilitation Institute of Dallas for Ergonomics

    • 2010 “Best Doctors in Dallas, Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2012 “Best Doctors in Dallas,” Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2013 “Best Doctors in Dallas,” Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2014 “Best Doctors in Dallas,” Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2014 Preceptor UT-Tyler PMHNP Program

    • 2016 “Best Doctors in Dallas,” Pain Management - D Magazine

    • 2016-17 Frisco ISD Independent Study Mentor

    • 2017 “Best Doctors in Dallas,” Psychiatry/ Pain Management, D Magazine

    • 2018 “Best Doctors in Dallas, ”Psychiatry/ Pain Management, D Magazine

    • 2018 “Patient Choice Award”, Vitals

    •  “Compassionate Doctor Recognition”, Vitals 

    • 2019 MagVenture Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Certification

    • 2019 Brexanolone Postpartum Depression REMS Certification

    • 2020 CloudTMS Certification

    • 2020 Cureus Journal of Medical Science Peer Reviewer

    • 2021 Cannabis Compassionate Use Registration of Texas

    • 2022 Preceptor UT Rio Grande Nurse Practitioner Program

    • 2023 Practicum Supervisor UT Houston School of Public Health

    • 2023-24 Preceptor Texas Christian University Graduate School of Nursing

  • Dr. Cohen maintains active involvement in pain management research and continuing medical education.

    Research

    • 2006 KRK Medical Research; clinical research sub-investigator

    • 2014 Galena Biopharma; clinical investigator

    • 2014-2016 Allen Research; Medical Director, principal investigator

    • 2024 NIDA Clinical Trials Network “Good Clinical Practice” Certification

    Presentations

    • Electroencephalography in Acute Head Trauma. Grand Rounds, Department of Neurology, University of Louisville, September 1982

    • Personality Disorders, Graduate School of Nursing, University of Texas-Arlington, 1993-2019

    • Pain Management, Graduate School of Nursing, University of Texas- Arlington, 1993-2019 Pain Pathophysiology and Treatment, University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, PGY-I Lectures, 1993-1996 

    • Parkland Hospital Psychiatric Unit Clinical Case Presentation Series, Department of Psychiatry, University of Texas Southwestern School of Medicine, 2002

    • Buprenorphine in Pain Management, Reckitt Benckiser Suboxone Clinical Symposium, New Orleans, LA 2004

    • Pharmacotherapy of Pain and Addiction, Nanning Maple Leaf Pharmaceuticals, Nanning, China 2004

    • New Concepts in the Pharmacologic Management of Pain, Dallas Pain Society, 2005

    • Opioids: History and Current Practice, Austin Pain Society, 2005

    • Evaluating and Treating Addiction in Chronic Pain Patients, Austin Pain Society, 2009

    • Fibromyalgia Treatment Update, Dallas PM&R Society, 2010

    • Treatment Resistant Headache, 12th Neuroscience Update for Primary Care Physicians, Irving, TX, 2011

    • Partnership in Pain Management, QVL Pharmacy Holdings Leadership Summit, 2011

    • A New Perspective for Pain Relief, North Texas Latin American Physicians Association, 2011

    • Clinical use of Buprenorphine for pain, Division of Pain Management, Department of

    • Anesthesiology, UT Southwestern Medical Center, 2011

    • Functional Restoration, Texas Pain Society 3rd Annual Meeting, Bastrop, TX 2011

    • Pain and Addiction Update, QVL Pharmacy Holdings Leadership Summit, 2012 

    • Pharmacologic Management of Chronic Pain, 26th Annual Psychiatric Nursing Symposium, University of Texas at Arlington, 2012

    • The assessment and treatment of pain in adults: Clinical and ethical considerations, Texas Society of Psychiatric Physicians, 2012

    • Pain management in cancer patients, Dallas Society of Oncology Nurses, 2012

    • Treatment of chronic pain, Dallas Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Society, 2012

    • Opioid dependence in Pregnancy, 2nd Annual Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome Conference, Norton-Kosair Children’s Hospital, Louisville, KY, 2012

    • Overview of Cancer Pain Management, US Oncology Research 2013, Dallas, TX

    • Pain Management, 14th Neuroscience Update for Primary Care Physicians,  Las Colinas, TX, 2013

    • Management of neuropathic pain, Dallas County Physician’s Assistant Society, 2014

    • The Opioid Dilemma, Pain Management Masters Symposium, Dallas, TX 2014

    • Long acting opioids for pain management, at Texas Pain Society 6th Annual Meeting, San Antonio, TX, 2014

    • Opioids in impulse control disorders, depression, and anxiety, Texas Medical Association Annual Meeting, Pain Management Symposium, 2016

    • Challenges in chronic pain management, Pain Weekend 2016, Dallas, TX

    • Forbidden Medicine: Emerging uses of psychedelic and natural medicines in clinical practice. Women Grow Educational Series, 2016, Dallas, TX

    • Cannabis Curriculum, Continuing Medical Education Series, Dallas, TX 2017 

    • Navigating the opioid dilemma: an overview of recommendations guiding todays pain management, Greater North Texas Pain Medicine Society, Spring quarterly meeting, 2017

    • Treatment Resistant Headache, 18th Neuroscience Update for Primary Care Physicians, Irving, TX, 2017

    • Neuropathic Pain, DepoMed Neurology Launch Meeting, San Francisco, CA 2017

    • The Emergence of Ketamine in Psychiatry, Texas Health Resources Behavioral Grand Rounds, 2022

    • Evolving Uses of Ketamine: Pain, Depression, Anxiety, and Chemical Dependency,

    • Association of Healthcare Documentation Integrity (AHDI), July 2023

    • Navigating Ketamine; Learning Series: Practical Guidance for Psychoactive Substances, International Consortium of Universities for Drug Demand Reduction (ICUDDR), October 2023

    • Ketamine Therapy and Addiction - Focus on Africa and Asia: International Consortium of Universities for Drug Demand Reduction (ICUDDR), May 2024

    • Cohen HM, Law-Yone B. Blowfish toxin: A new approach to pain management, Texas Pain Bulletin, April 2001.

    • Cohen HM, Law-Yone B. Pufferfish Toxin: a new age analgesic, The Pain Clinic: A Multidisciplinary Approach to Acute & Chronic Pain Management. 2001; 3: 27-31.

    • Kiser RS, Cohen HM, Freedenfeld RN, Jewell C, and Fuchs PN. Olanzapine for fibromyalgia symptoms, Journal of Pain and Symptom Management. 2001; 22: 704-708 

    • Cohen HM, Law-Yone B, Pufferfish Toxin, Surgical Physician Assistant, 2001; 11: 31-35.

    • Cohen HM, Law-Yone B, Lu S. Poppy to Fugu: A historical perspective of the treatment of opiate addiction in China, Journal of Chinese Medicine. 2002; 68: 15-20.

    • Cohen HM. Tetrodotoxin, Canadian Oncology Nursing Journal, 2004; 14: 2: 134.

    • Cohen, HM, Tetrodotoxin: Puffer Fish Toxin for Cancer Pain, Registered Practical Nursing Journal, 2004; 1: 3: 5.

    • Howard K, Mayer G, Neblett, R, Perez, Y, Cohen H, Gatchel R, Fibromyalgia syndrome in chronic disabling occupational musculoskeletal disorders: Prevalence, risk factors, and post-treatment outcomes, Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine, 2010; 52: 12: 1186-90

    • Mayer T, Neblett R, Cohen H, Howard K, Yun Hee C, Willams M, Perez Y, Gatchel R, The development and psychometric validation of the Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI) , Pain Practice, 2012; 12: 276-85

    • Neblett R, Cohen H, Choi Y, Hartzell M, Williams M, Mayer T, Gatchel R, The Central Sensitization Inventory (CSI): Establishing clinically significant values for identifying central sensitivity syndromes in an outpatient chronic pain sample, The Journal of Pain, 2013, May; 14(5): 438-45

    • Neblett R, Hartzell M, Cohen H, Mayer T, Williams M, Choi Y, Gatchel R, Ability of the Central Sensitization Inventory to identify central sensitivity syndromes in an outpatient chronic pain sample.The Clinical Journal of Pain, 2015, April; 31(4); 323

    • Neblett M, Hartzell M, Mayer T, Cohen H, Gatchel R, Establishing clinically relevant severity levels for the Central Sensitization Inventory, Pain Practice, 2017, Feb; 17

    • (2) ;166-175 

    Book chapters

    • Functional Restoration, Mayer E, Cohen H, Mayer T, Chapter 107 in The Spine, 6th

    • Edition (eds.) R. Rothman and F. Simeone, W.B. Saunders Co., Philadelphia, PA,

    • 2010

    • Polatin P, Gajraj N, Cohen H, Integration of pharmacotherapy with the psychological treatment of pain, Psychological Approaches to Pain Management, 3rd Edition,

    • Turk, D, Gatchel, R, Guilford Press, New York, NY, 2018

    Media

    • 1991 KDFW-TV

    • 1993 WBAP Radio

    • 1994 Community Connection Television

    • 2001 London Free Press, Medical Post, Hospital News

    • The Calgary Herald

    • 2002 Georgia Straight, Carlyle Observer ,

    • The Star Phoenix, Italian Times

    • 2003 The Muse, The Link, Excalibur, The Manitoban

    • 2004 Alternative Health Magazine

    • 2005 Annual Report - Wex Pharmaceuticals

    • 2006 Pharmacy Times, The Toronto Globe and Mail

    • 2009 WFAA -TV

    • 2020 American Health Front

    • 2023 WFAA-TV - Good Morning Texas

Frequently Asked Questions About EDS Treatment

Where can I find EDS treatment near me in Dallas-Fort Worth?

Mind + Body Medicine in Dallas offers the most comprehensive EDS treatment program in North Texas. Our Intensive Outpatient Pain Program is specifically designed for complex conditions like EDS, providing multidisciplinary care that addresses both physical symptoms and quality of life issues. We serve patients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex and surrounding areas.

How long does EDS treatment take to show results?

Treatment response varies by individual, but clinical experience suggests that 60-70% of patients in our Intensive Outpatient Pain Program begin experiencing meaningful improvements within 4-6 weeks. The 28-day program provides a solid foundation for long-term management, with ongoing support and follow-up care tailored to each patient's needs.

Is EDS treatment covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans cover medically necessary EDS treatments, including our Intensive Outpatient Pain Program when properly documented. Our team works closely with insurance providers to ensure proper authorization and coverage for recommended treatments. Pre-authorization is typically required for intensive programs.

Can EDS be prevented or cured?

EDS is a genetic condition that cannot be prevented or cured. However, with proper treatment and management, patients can achieve significant improvements in pain levels, function, and quality of life. Early intervention and comprehensive care are key to preventing complications and maintaining independence.

What are the risks of EDS treatment?

All medical treatments carry potential risks. Our comprehensive informed consent process ensures patients understand potential side effects, which may include temporary symptom flare-ups, medication side effects, or rare complications from advanced procedures. We carefully monitor all patients and adjust treatment plans as needed.

Schedule Your EDS Consultation

Don't let Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome control your life. Our comprehensive treatment approach has helped patients throughout the Dallas-Fort Worth area regain function, reduce pain, and improve their quality of life.

Contact Us

Phone: 817-518-4607 
Address: 10400 N Central Expy, Dallas, TX 75231 
Hours: Monday - Friday, 9am to 5pm

1 National Library of Medicine. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. Available: https://medlineplus.gov/ehlersdanlossyndrome.html. Accessed September 24, 2025.

2 Miklovic T, Sieg VC. Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome. [Updated 2023 May 29]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK549814/. Accessed September 24, 2025.

3 Niesters M, Martini C, Dahan A. Ketamine for chronic pain: risks and benefits. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2014 Feb;77(2):357-67. doi: 10.1111/bcp.12094. PMID: 23432384; PMCID: PMC4014022. Available: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23432384/. Accessed September 24, 2025.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual treatment plans vary based on specific medical conditions, symptoms, and patient needs. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making treatment decisions.

Editorial Review Process: All content is reviewed by board-certified physicians and updated regularly to reflect current medical standards and research findings.