Owing to loose joints, individuals are at substantial risk for slowed motor development, poor muscle tone, sprains, and partial or complete joint dislocations. Children may have a tendency to develop hernias or other organ shifts within the abdomen. EDS classical type is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Both large joints, such as the elbows and knees, and small joints, such as toes and fingers, are affected. Partial and total joint dislocations are common, and particularly involve the jaw, knee, and shoulder.
Many individuals experience chronic limb and joint pain , although x rays are normal.
The skin may also bruise easily. EDS hypermobility type is inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. The connective tissue in the intestines, arteries, and uterus is unusually weak, leading to a strong possibility of organ or blood vessel rupture. The large joints have normal stability, but small joints in the hands and feet are loose. The skin is thin and translucent, with veins dramatically visible.