Drop it Like it's POTS with Emily Rich, OT

Zebra Talks: Living Your Best Bendy Life

This episode of Zebra Talks features Dr. Libby Hinsley, physical therapist and author, hosting Emily Rich, an occupational therapist with a focus on treating Ehlers Danlos syndromes, dysautonomia, and related conditions. The discussion begins with Emily sharing her personal journey with Hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome and her motivation for specializing in this field. She explains the role of occupational therapy in managing these conditions, emphasizing patient-partnered, evidence-based treatment approaches to improve daily living activities. The conversation delves into the nuances of dysautonomia, particularly Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), detailing its symptoms, diagnosis, and the three main types: neuropathic, hypovolemic, and hyperadrenergic POTS. Emily outlines the 'big five' non-pharmacological management strategies (compression, increasing blood volume, exercise/movement, managing anxiety, and sleeping on an incline) and discusses the importance of pharmaceutical management. She stresses the significance of tailored treatment plans, the potential of vagus nerve stimulation, and encourages seeking knowledgeable healthcare providers. Emily ends by highlighting resources for both patients and healthcare professionals looking to learn more about managing POTS and related conditions.

Highlights of this episode include:

00:33 Introducing Emily Rich: A Deep Dive into Occupational Therapy for EDS and POTS
01:32 Emily's Personal Journey with Hypermobility and Career Shift
02:40 The Role of Occupational Therapy in Managing Chronic Conditions
03:45 Exploring Dysautonomia and POTS: Definitions and Diagnoses
07:34 The Common Forms of Dysautonomia in Hypermobility Syndromes
10:57 Diagnosing POTS: Techniques and Challenges
11:53 Understanding the Different Types of POTS
21:47 Non-Pharmacological Approaches to Managing POTS
33:38 Pharmaceutical Management of POTS: A Critical Overview
37:09 Innovative Treatments and the Future of POTS Management
39:53 Empowering Patients and Providers: Resources and Education
42:22 Closing Thoughts and Resources for Further Learning