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Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Support in Portland, Oregon


Diagnosis for EDS, and even HSD, can take several years. “A diagnostic odyssey” is how researcher, Dr. Colin Halverson, puts it.

And yes, it can feel like an odyssey. Anyone who has been on a diagnostic odyssey knows that definition fits and that hardship is the most notable experience. 

While on this odyssey, one of the main things most people will experience is doctors and other medical professionals telling them:

  • “You are fine.”

  • “You don’t seem like you are in much pain.”

  • “You’re too young for this.”

  • “Your labs are normal.”

  • “It is probably just anxiety.”

Once you hear that long enough, you start to believe that you are the problem. As your life becomes smaller and smaller and pain, dizziness, difficulty eating, allergies, etc get worse, you can start to gaslight yourself into thinking you are over reacting.

I want you to know that I’m here to support you and I believe you.

Ready to get started? Schedule a new client appointment.

My approach to care for EDS

I start from the place of belief and education. I understand the different subtypes of EDS and know that having a connective tissue disorder can affect every part of the body, since we are held together with connective tissue! 

Part of my approach focuses on figuring out what exactly your body is struggling with and then support you communicating with other providers about how real and potentially disabling this condition can be.

What Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Can Look Like

EDS is most known for joint flexibility and instability and these are the most obvious challenges that most people with EDS face. However, since EDS affects all connective tissues, it can affect the heart, skin, eyes, and other parts of the body.

The majority of people with EDS have hypermobile EDS (hEDS), but it is important to evaluate for other versions.

Since EDS and hypermobile syndromes have not been seen as common, so they are not always the first thing that doctors consider. They also lead to so many different symptoms that do not seem to go under one condition, which can make it difficult to diagnose easily. Even once diagnosed, if many body systems are being affected, then multiple specialists may be involved in care, which can cause challenges without someone to keep track of everything.

When working with patients who have EDS, we focus on:

  • Physical therapy and massage therapy to help with pain

  • Joint stabilization support - braces and kinesotape are a couple of options for support

  • Determining what subtypes of EDS one might have to better be able to address any issues that might arise in the future

  • Digestive care - finding out if gastroparesis is an issue and addressing that as well as slower digestion

  • Finding strength coaches who can safely increase muscle strength and stability


    We also have to teach you to believe your body again and not push it too hard or do things that will injure it. This can take time and a good therapist!

    I also work with PTs who understand hypermobility to address physical pain and increase strength to support joints that are hyperflexible.

Is This the Right Fit?

  • Are you newly diagnosed with EDS or HSD and want some more support?

  • People at any stage of their Diagnostic Odyssey.

  • Anyone concerned that they might have EDS or HSD and would like to see someone early on who can help them with diagnostics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this only for people who already have a diagnosis?

Not at all. This is for people at any stage of the process. From newly diagnosed and looking for more support, deep into their diagnostic odyssey, or just starting to wonder if EDS or a hypermobility spectrum disorder might explain what they're experiencing.

I don't have EDS, but I'm hypermobile and dealing with pain. Can you still help?

Hypermobility spectrum disorders can bring many of the same challenges as hEDS, even without meeting the full criteria for an EDS diagnosis. The goal is to address what your body needs, not just to chase a label.

Do you offer telehealth?

Yes, telehealth is available for Oregon residents. In-person appointments are also available at my Portland practice.

Do you accept insurance?

I accept insurance, but please check your insurance prior to your appointment for confirmation of coverage as this list may change:

  • Aetna

  • American Specialty Health (AshNetwork)

  • BCBS/Regence

  • Oregon Health Plan:

    • Care Oregon - look under Physical Health Plan on your insurance card

  • Pacific Source

  • United

  • “My ability to self advocate increases day by day, thanks to the work I’ve done with Dr. Nelson. I feel seen and understood in our discussions. Her insight into the issues I raise is always thoughtful, compassionate, and on point. Her advice has positively influenced both my physical and mental health, and I am excited to continue learning from her."

    —N.K.