
Show Notes
In this episode of Zebra Talks, Libby welcomes biomechanics expert Jules Mitchell to discuss the science of stretching and connective tissue behavior, particularly in the context of hypermobility syndromes. Jules provides insights from her extensive research and professional experience, addressing common misconceptions about stretching, the adaptive capabilities of connective tissue, and how people with hypermobility can safely engage in physical activities. The discussion includes the impact of mechanical tension on tissue adaptation, the importance of understanding individual responses to stretching, and the role of exercise science in improving joint stability and resilience. Jules, who is also the author of 'Yoga Biomechanics Stretching Redefined' and an educator of yoga teachers worldwide, shares valuable perspectives on the interplay between biomechanics and yoga practices, offering practical advice for both practitioners and instructors. 00:35 Meet Jules Mitchell: Yoga Biomechanics Expert02:18 Jules' Journey into Stretching Research04:55 Understanding Connective Tissue and Hypermobility12:46 The Science of Stretching and Tissue Adaptation18:37 Practical Advice for Bendy People40:22 Final Thoughts and Resources
More from Zebra Talks: Living Your Best Bendy Life
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Host Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes physical therapist Dr. Laura Glazebrook to discuss scoliosis, especially its overlap with hypermobility. Laura shares her own history of rapidly progressing scoliosis, undergoing a spinal fusion at age 11, and later realizing she likely falls on the hypermobility spectrum.
Dr. Libby Hinsley welcomes menopause specialist and nurse practitioner Vanessa Weiland, founder of Phases Clinic and creator of Bendy Menopause, who also has hypermobile EDS and MCAS.
Host Dr. Libby Hinsley interviews Abbey Phillipson, a classical Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) advocate and Paralympic strength and conditioning coach at the University of Michigan. Abbey shares her experience with early signs, diagnosis via genetics (COL5A1), and serious complications of Classical EDS.
Host Dr. Libby Hinsley interviews pelvic floor physical therapist and author Dr. Amy Stein, founder of Beyond Basics Physical Therapy. Stein discusses the strong overlap she sees between hypermobility and pelvic floor dysfunction (estimating about 70% of her patients), including patterns of pelvic floor gripping used for stability, pelvic pain, prolapse, hernias, constipation/IBS symptoms, possible pelvic congestion, and bladder, bowel, and sexual dysfunction across all genders.