While the mixture of medicines related to MCC have been under study for some time, physicians familiar with the work of Beech Tree Labs and Resolys Bio asked scientists to focus on a condition for which there is no well-established therapy, hypermobility Ehlers-Danlos Syndromes (hEDS). This is generally regarded as a genetic condition which is evidenced not only by “loose joints” (hypermobility) but also by chronic pain and fatigue.
Although hEDS is currently considered to be untreatable, physicians using MCC have reported that MCC can reduce pain and fatigue in people with hEDS within one month of initiating use. There is also limited evidence that it may improve joint function with the passage of time.
EDS comprises more than a dozen genetic disorders that cause defective processing of collagen and, as a result, weakened or defective connective tissues in the body. As a broad generalization, these disorders reduce the strength and increase the elasticity of connective tissues in the body’s frame (particularly those holding joints together) and may create life threatening flaws or weaknesses in the structure and performance of organs such as kidneys, intestines, and blood vessels.
Loose joints that are not held together firmly by normal connective tissue characterizes hEDS where patients experience frequent dislocations, pain from dislocations, and inflammation. Many who suffer with this condition also report fatigue because muscles are working overtime to keep the body together.
Genetic testing has associated specific mutations with certain characteristics of EDS, and physicians have defined seven types by both their genetic and symptomatic characteristics. However, hEDS has not yet been clearly linked to a genetic marker. Furthermore, it is not yet clear whether other forms of Joint Hypermobility Syndromes that are accompanied by pain and fatigue may also respond to MCC. Without proper testing and evaluation, afflicted patients are often misdiagnosed with hypochondriasis, depression, or chronic fatigue syndrome.
As there is no known cure, treatment for the pain and fatigue associated with hypermobility generally emphasizes physical bracing and muscle development to support loose joints. Physical therapy, bracing, and casting may help strengthen muscles and shore up joints, but progressive disease often leads to wheelchairs and permanent incapacitation. Aquatic therapy promotes muscular development and coordination but does not address the lack of joint support.