Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein - podcast cover

Bendy Bodies with Dr. Linda Bluestein

Dr. Linda Bluesteinwww.bendybodiespodcast.com
Whether you’re bendy with all the benefits or hurting in all the wrong places, you’ve come to the right place for all things hypermobility. Connective tissue disorders like Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (EDS) are often dismissed or overlooked by healthcare providers as a cause of chronic pain. But if you or someone you care about struggles with the life-altering symptoms of hypermobility, you should know YOU ARE NOT ALONE! At the Bendy Bodies Podcast, we understand. Each week, join Dr. Linda Bluestein (The Hypermobility MD) as she pulls back the curtain on how to prevent injury and unnecessary suffering in “double-jointed” individuals seeking a more comfortable life in their unique, complex “bendy bodies.” When you tune in, you’re engaging in more than a podcast. Both on-air and online, you’re joining a supportive community where patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals trade insights, life hacks, and inspiring stories to embrace our Bendy Bodies journey together!
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Episodes

What Can Difficulty Swallowing and Voice Fatigue Mean? (Ep 152)

Speech-language pathologist and vocal specialist Stacy Menton joins Dr. Linda Bluestein to expose the surprising links between connective tissue disorders like EDS and common (but misunderstood) issues with voice, breathing, and swallowing. From overlooked diagnostics to cutting-edge therapies and startling new research, this conversation peels back the curtain on symptoms often dismissed or misdiagnosed. A must-listen for patients, clinicians, and anyone who's been told "everything looks normal...

Jul 03, 20251 hr 12 min

Mast Cells: Friend or Foe? with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides (Ep 151)

What if your brain fog, fatigue, and hypersensitivity weren’t “just anxiety”—but signs of a much deeper immune malfunction? In this episode, Dr. Pradeep Chopra co-hosts a rare and revealing conversation with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, the scientist who first discovered that mast cells communicate with microglia in the brain. Together, they dive into groundbreaking research on neuroinflammation, autism, histamine, stress, and why brain fog may not be “all in your head”—but inflammation inside it....

Jun 26, 20251 hr 20 min

Misunderstood and Overlooked: hEDS, FND & Autism | Office Hours (Ep 150)

You asked. I answered. In this solo Q&A, I tackle some of the biggest and most misunderstood questions from our Bendy Bodies community. From toddlers flagged for autism to adults fighting for an EDS diagnosis, from altitude flares to functional neurologic disorder, this episode pulls no punches. I talk low-dose naltrexone (LDN), altitude hacks, medication struggles, and the quiet panic of a diagnosis that suddenly shifts under you. Plus, we look ahead to the 2026 hEDS (hypermobile Ehlers-Dan...

Jun 19, 202549 min

Are Your Breast Implants Making You Sick? with Dr. Eva Nagy (Ep 149)

What if your breast implants were silently fueling your fatigue, anxiety, rashes, or brain fog—and no one believed you? In this powerful episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with renowned breast surgeon Dr. Eva Nagy who’s become a global voice for patients suffering from Breast Implant Illness (BII). Together, they uncover the overlooked signs of mast cell activation, connective tissue involvement, immune dysregulation, and the invisible damage that can linger—even when scans look normal. Dr. Nag...

Jun 12, 20251 hr 6 min

Hidden Causes of Pain ‘Down There’ with Dr. Andrew Goldstein (Ep 148)

What if the pain you’ve been told to ignore… was actually coming from your hips, your spine—or your immune system? In this deep-dive episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein is joined by Dr. Andrew Goldstein, an expert in sexual pain disorders, to unravel the misunderstood causes of vulvar and pelvic pain in people with EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome), MCAS (Mast Cell Activation Syndrome) , and POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome). Dr. Goldstein reveals why the traditional diagnosis of “vulvodynia”...

Jun 05, 20251 hr 18 min

Is There Any Hope for Broken Healthcare? (Ep 147)

What if your rushed, robotic medical visit isn’t just frustrating, but a symptom of something much darker? In this powerful episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. Victor Montori, author of Why We Revolt, to explore what’s truly broken in healthcare and why patients and clinicians are suffering on the same side of the fight. Together, they uncover the corrosive impact of industrialized, fast medicine, the hidden costs of “heroic” care, and how complex patients are forced to carry impossi...

May 29, 20251 hr 3 min

What’s Behind the Rise in Chemical Sensitivity? | Office Hours (Ep 146)

What if your symptoms weren’t isolated… but signals in a much larger system breakdown? In this wide-ranging solo Q&A, Dr. Linda Bluestein uncovers the hidden threads connecting uncontrolled pain before surgery, unexplained eye issues, MCAS, multiple chemical sensitivity, Alpha-gal syndrome, and even autism risk. From the scar tissue no one warned you about to the medication that works—but doctors won’t prescribe—it’s all here. Dr. Bluestein shares eye-opening research on TILT (Toxicant-Induc...

May 22, 202548 min

Are Mast Cells Driving Autism? with Dr. Pejman Katiraei (Ep 145)

What if the diagnosis was just the beginning—and the root cause was hiding in plain sight? In this riveting episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes pediatrician and integrative medicine expert Dr. Pejman Katiraei, whose work with children struggling with autism, mold exposure, and mast cell activation reveals a shocking truth: many kids aren’t just neurodivergent—they have neuroinflammation. Together, they peel back the layers on what’s really driving autistic behaviors, why some children can’t to...

May 15, 20251 hr 26 min

Unraveling Fatigue: Exploring ME/CFS, and Long COVID (Ep 144)

What if your body’s collapse wasn’t burnout… but a system crash no test can catch? In this episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Isabelle Ramirez Burnett, systems engineer, health coach, and founder of Renegade Research, to reveal the silent breakdowns behind ME/CFS, long COVID, and hypermobility-related illness. Diagnosed with ME/CFS at just 7 years old, Isabelle pulls back the curtain on decades of missed diagnoses, medical dismissal, and her discovery of a community willing to do what the hea...

May 08, 20251 hr 14 min

Dental Problems in EDS with Dr. Audrey Kershaw (Ep 143)

What if your dental history held the key to a complex diagnosis no one’s caught? In this gripping episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Audrey Kershaw, a trailblazing oral surgeon who’s uncovered hundreds of hidden Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) cases—starting in the dental chair. From patients who “can’t numb up,” to decades-long battles with halitosis, gum fragility, and jaw instability, Dr. Kershaw shares the subtle (and sometimes shocking) signs that suggest som...

May 01, 20251 hr 14 min

Is Your EDS Party Trick Causing Long-Term Damage? | Office Hours (EP 142)

What if the very things you do to feel or look better are quietly making you worse? In this solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein answers listener questions—but what begins as a practical Q&A quickly dives into rarely discussed truths about cosmetic procedures, EMFs, neuroinflammation, and even fragrances as dangerous triggers. You’ll hear surprising stories from patients who’ve suffered unexpected complications—and discover how seemingly harmless habits, like party t...

Apr 24, 202545 min

Top Therapists Share Tips for Surviving EDS (Ep 141)

What happens when illness hijacks your love story? In this raw and revealing episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with therapists and real-life couple Melissa Dickinson and Tom Query, who know firsthand how Ehlers-Danlos syndrome can test—and transform—a relationship. From secret diagnoses to unexpected intimacy challenges, they open up about their personal journey navigating chronic illness, caregiving, trauma, and neurodivergence while maintaining connection, humor, and purpose. But it doesn...

Apr 17, 20251 hr 16 min

Why Are You So Exhausted? with Dr. Brayden P. Yellman (Ep 140)

What if the fatigue you feel isn’t just “tiredness”—but the result of an entirely different physiological state? In this riveting episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. Brayden P. Yellman of the Bateman Horne Center to explore ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome)—a misunderstood condition that masquerades as general exhaustion but goes much deeper. Together, they unravel the hidden markers of post-exertional malaise, explain how upright posture can quietly sabotag...

Apr 10, 20251 hr 6 min

Hidden Histamine Threats with Dr. Theoharis Theoharides (Ep 139)

What if the symptoms you've been chasing—brain fog, fatigue, bladder pain, even anxiety—were all connected by one overlooked cell type? In this fascinating episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein is joined by Dr. Theoharis Theoharides, one of the world’s leading experts on mast cells, to unravel the hidden roles they play in some of the most complex chronic illnesses. From histamine sensitivity that mimics allergies, to lab tests that miss what’s really going on, Dr. Theoharides...

Apr 03, 20251 hr 20 min

Lower Your EDS Pain | Office Hours (EP 138)

In this solo Q&A episode, Dr. Linda Bluestein answers your biggest hypermobility questions, tackling topics like whether getting an official EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes) diagnosis is worth it, which pain medications actually help, how to improve posture, and the growing stigma around EDS. She also discusses visceroptosis (organ prolapse), posture braces, and the legalities of medical centers refusing EDS patients. Dr. Bluestein shares practical hypermobility hacks and gives insight into the...

Mar 27, 202545 min

Signs of Tethered Cord You Shouldn’t Ignore with Dr. Petra Klinge (Ep 137)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Petra Klinge, a renowned neurosurgeon specializing in tethered cord syndrome (TCS), Chiari malformation, and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) disorders. They dive deep into occult tethered cord syndrome, a condition where MRI scans appear normal, yet patients still experience neurological symptoms, chronic pain, and bladder/bowel dysfunction. Dr. Klinge explains how tethered cord affects EDS patients, the role of connective t...

Mar 20, 20251 hr 18 min

Hidden Triggers of Complex Illness with Dr. David Kaufman (Ep 136)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein sits down with Dr. David Kaufman, a specialist in complex illnesses, to discuss how infections, immune dysfunction, and connective tissue disorders intersect. They explore why many chronic illnesses are often overlooked or misdiagnosed. This includes conditions like ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyeltiis/chronic fatigue syndrome), Long COVID, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia, Dr. Kaufm...

Mar 13, 20251 hr 16 min

The Truth About Hormone Therapy | Office Hours (EP 135)

In this solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein dives deep into the complex world of hormones, menopause, and connective tissue disorders. She explores how estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone impact joint health, the benefits and risks of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and why menopause can worsen EDS symptoms. Dr. Bluestein also breaks down gender-affirming hormone therapy, the role of mast cells in hormonal responses, and why some testosterone clinics may not hav...

Mar 06, 202550 min

Why Sjogren’s is Often Misdiagnosed with Dr. Kara Wada (Ep 134)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Kara Wada, an allergy and immunology expert, to explore Sjogren’s disease and its connection to hypermobility, dysautonomia, and Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS). They discuss why Sjogren’s is one of the most underdiagnosed autoimmune conditions, its symptoms beyond dryness, and how it intertwines with POTS (postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome) and EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes). Dr. Wada also dives into Sjogr...

Feb 27, 20251 hr 18 min

How Internists Think About Complex Illness with Dr. Matthew Watto (Ep 133)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with Dr. Matthew Watto, an internist and co-host of The Curbsiders podcast, about how patients can work effectively with their internist to get the best care. They discuss how internists think, why appointment times are limited, and strategies for getting the most out of every visit. Dr. Watto shares behind-the-scenes insights on primary care challenges, chronic pain management, and the medical system's limitations, while al...

Feb 20, 20251 hr 14 min

Reversing Brain Fog & Inflammation with Dr. Ilene Ruhoy (Ep 132)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein welcomes Dr. Ilene Ruhoy, a board-certified neurologist and environmental toxicologist, for an in-depth discussion on brain fog, cognitive dysfunction, and chronic fatigue in conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and dysautonomia. Dr. Ruhoy shares insights on the immune system’s role in neurological symptoms, the impact of mast cell activation, and the role of treatments like peptides, ...

Feb 13, 20251 hr 26 minSeason 5Ep. 132

Testosterone is Essential for Women with Dr. Kelly Casperson (Ep 131)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein chats with Dr. Kelly Casperson, a urologist and sexual health expert, about hormones, libido, and sexual wellness—especially for those with hypermobility, Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and related conditions. They dive into testosterone in women, hormone myths, bladder health, vaginal estrogen, and why pelvic floor therapy is a must. Dr. Casperson debunks common hormone fears, explains the role of mast cells and bladder issues, and...

Feb 06, 202556 min

Hidden Causes of Painful Sex with Dr. Irwin Goldstein & Sue Goldstein (Ep 130)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with sexual health experts Dr. Irwin Goldstein & Sue Goldstein. This amazing husband and wife team share insights on common issues such as vestibulodynia, libido challenges, and treatment options ranging from physical therapy to hormone therapy. They explore the often-overlooked intersection of joint hypermobility conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and Postural Orthostatic...

Jan 30, 20251 hr 26 min

Mast Cells: A Hidden Trigger with Dr. Jill Carnahan (Ep 129)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein chats with functional medicine expert Dr. Jill Carnahan about tackling complex conditions like Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), and POTS. A Breast Cancer and Crohn's disease survivor, Dr. Carnahan shares her unique approach to identifying root causes of chronic illness using functional medicine principles. They explore the triad of MCAS, EDS, and dysautonomia, and discuss tools like the limbic sys...

Jan 23, 202556 min

IV Fluids, Surgery, and Supplements | Office Hours (Ep 128)

In this solo episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein tackles your most pressing questions about preparing for surgery with conditions like Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), POTS, and MCAS. Dr. Bluestein explains how the recent IV fluid shortage may affect you, which supplements to stop before surgery, and why hydration is key for successful outcomes. She also addresses the importance of communicating with your surgeon about your unique medical needs and provides practical pre- and p...

Jan 16, 202538 min

Pelvic Floor Secrets for Hypermobility with Dr. Emily Bohan (Ep 127)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with her personal physical therapist, Dr. Emily Bohan, about the often-overlooked role of pelvic floor health in people with hypermobility, EDS, and related conditions. Emily explains why pelvic floor dysfunction can cause issues like low back pain, hip instability, urinary incontinence, and constipation. She shares her expertise on how to strengthen and relax the pelvic floor safely, emphasizing why Kegels aren't always the...

Jan 09, 20251 hr 9 min

Navigating College with EDS: A Firsthand Experience with Lauren Vasko (EP 126)

In this deeply meaningful episode of the Bendy Bodies Podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein reconnects with her very first EDS patient, Lauren Vasko. Lauren shares her remarkable story of resilience, from navigating life in a wheelchair, managing Cranial-Cervical Instability (CCI), and battling POTS, to regaining her independence and teaching art in Kenya. She reflects on her challenges with misdiagnoses, traumatic medical experiences, and the importance of self-advocacy. Lauren reveals the tools, treatm...

Jan 02, 20251 hr 10 min

Strategies for POTS Relief with Dr. Satish Raj (Ep 125)

In this episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with leading autonomic specialist Dr. Satish Raj about POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), dysautonomia, and orthostatic intolerance. Dr. Raj delves into the complexity of these conditions, including their diverse causes, challenges in diagnosis, and innovative treatments. Learn why POTS is a "feeling faint" disorder rather than a fainting disorder, the role of compression garments and increased sodium intake, ...

Dec 26, 20241 hr 24 min

The Truth About Food Allergy Testing | Office Hours (Ep 124)

In this informative solo episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein, the Hypermobility MD, dives into pressing topics impacting the hypermobility community. Learn about the new anesthesia time limit policy from Anthem Blue Cross (that was then reversed), how to manage Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), understand food allergy testing, and find the best coaching options for those with complex conditions. Takeaways: New Anesthesia Policy Impacts EDS Patients: Anthem Blue Cross int...

Dec 19, 202454 min

How EDS Affects the Ears, Nose, and Throat with Dr. Das (Ep 123)

In this enlightening episode of the Bendy Bodies podcast, Dr. Linda Bluestein speaks with otolaryngologist Dr. Shu Das about the unique ENT challenges faced by people with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS). Dr. Das shares his expertise on common issues like tonsil stones, chronic sore throats, and sinus infections, while diving deep into how EDS impacts vocal cords, nasal health, and even hearing. He offers practical tips for managing symptoms, from antibiotic courses to alternative surgical approach...

Dec 12, 20241 hr 18 min
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