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This week on the podcast, Mikki speaks to Melissa Koehl, a physical therapist and movement specialist living with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, who brings both clinical expertise and lived experience to the conversation.

In this episode, Melissa breaks down what EDS actually is in practical terms, how it shows up day-to-day, and why so many people go years without a diagnosis. The discussion explores the difference between being naturally flexible and having true hypermobility, along with the often-overlooked symptoms like chronic pain, fatigue, and proprioceptive challenges. Melissa explains what’s happening beneath the surface with joint stability and connective tissue, and why traditional approaches to exercise can sometimes do more harm than good.

The conversation then shifts into what actually works. From strength training and motor control to pacing, recovery, and rebuilding trust in the body, Melissa shares a clear framework for managing hypermobility safely and effectively. They also touch on the role of muscle mass, nutrition, and daily habits in supporting long-term function.

It’s a grounded and reassuring conversation for anyone navigating a body that feels unpredictable, offering both clarity and practical direction.

Melissa is a physical therapist with over two decades of experience, specialising in hypermobility, joint pain, and movement rehabilitation. She lives with hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (hEDS) herself, giving her a unique perspective on both the clinical and lived realities of the condition.

Originally a nationally competitive level 10 gymnast, Melissa’s flexibility was once a strength but ultimately contributed to a series of injuries, including a career-ending stress fracture in her lower back. Ongoing pain led her to explore different movement modalities, including Pilates, yoga, and strength and conditioning. While each offered benefits, it was the integration of these approaches that proved most effective.

Melissa went on to develop the ChimeraFit method, a system that combines elements of Pilates, yoga, strength, and balance training to support people with hypermobility, arthritis, and chronic joint pain. She has been teaching this approach for over 20 years, helping individuals build strength, stability, and confidence in their bodies through safe and effective movement.

https://www.chimera-health.com/