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New Research on COVID-19, the Spike Protein, and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome

  • Writer: Chronic Coach
    Chronic Coach
  • Jul 1
  • 4 min read
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Living with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) comes with its own set of daily challenges — from hypermobile joints to fragile skin and sensitive blood vessels. But the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced another layer of concern for the EDS community: the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein.


A recent article by Fajloun, Legros, and Sabatier (COVID-19 and Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome: The Dangers of the Spike Protein of SARS-CoV-2, 2023) explores why people with EDS may face heightened risks during COVID-19 infection or exposure to the spike protein through vaccination. Let’s break down what this means and what the research says.


Why EDS May Increase COVID-19 Risk


EDS affects connective tissue, which provides structure and support to your joints, skin, and blood vessels. The spike protein — the part of the virus that allows it to enter cells — can interact with receptors in connective tissue, potentially making underlying vulnerabilities worse. This may increase the risk of more severe symptoms, especially in long COVID, which shares many overlapping symptoms with EDS such as fatigue, joint instability, and autonomic dysfunction (Fajloun et al., 2023).



Several studies have highlighted mechanisms that may explain why spike protein exposure could impact people with EDS:


  1. Joint Hypermobility and Long COVID – A BMJ Public Health study found that people with generalized joint hypermobility (common in EDS) were more likely to experience prolonged COVID-19 symptoms like fatigue and joint instability (Ehlers-Danlos Society, 2023).

  2. Gene Expression Overlap – Some research suggests that structural vulnerabilities in EDS may interact with immune pathways activated during COVID-19 infection, potentially intensifying symptoms (PMC, 2023).

  3. Spike Protein in Cerebral Arteries – Studies show the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein can linger in cerebral arteries after mRNA vaccination. For people with EDS, who often have fragile blood vessels, this could theoretically increase the risk of vascular instability (ScienceDirect, 2025).

  4. Circulating Spike Protein in Post-COVID Patients – Research in Circulation found elevated levels of full-length spike protein in the plasma of people with long COVID, which may contribute to ongoing symptoms, especially in those with connective tissue disorders (Circulation, 2022).

  5. Post-Vaccination Syndrome – Some studies suggest certain individuals experience higher levels of spike protein after vaccination, which may be linked to prolonged symptoms in susceptible populations (People, 2023).


What This Means for People with EDS


The takeaway isn’t that COVID-19 vaccines are inherently unsafe — far from it. But this research suggests that people with EDS may benefit from heightened awareness and careful monitoring. The combination of fragile connective tissue, vascular differences, and the potential effects of the spike protein means that infections or prolonged exposure could theoretically trigger more severe or prolonged symptoms.


Practical Tips for EDS Patients


Managing EDS during COVID-19 involves both protecting yourself from infection and supporting your body’s connective tissue and vascular health. Here are some strategies to consider—always in consultation with your healthcare provider:


  • Support your immune response naturally: Red and near-infrared (NIR) light therapy may help reduce inflammation and support recovery during and after infections. Some practitioners also discuss the use of supplements like modified NAC or specialized enzymes such as Nattokinase to help the body process lingering spike proteins.

  • Consider evidence-based antiviral options under supervision: Some people explore ivermectin during COVID infection or post-infection recovery. Always talk to your doctor before taking any antiviral or off-label medications.

  • Protect your connective tissue: Gentle movement, joint stabilization exercises, and mindful physical therapy help maintain structural integrity. Practices like Feldenkrais, somatic exercises, and balance training are great options.

  • Grounding / Earthing: Spending time barefoot on natural surfaces may help the body absorb electrons from the earth, potentially reducing inflammation and oxidative stress.

  • Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy: Can support circulation, improve blood viscosity, and encourage better tissue repair.

  • Structured water support: Techniques like PEMF, hydration with mineral-rich water, and movement may help maintain the structure of intracellular and extracellular water, supporting cellular function.

  • Collaborate with your healthcare team: Before adding any therapies, supplements, or medications—especially during infection or vaccination periods—always discuss your plan with a knowledgeable clinician familiar with EDS.


Bottom Line

The research from Fajloun et al. (2023) and related studies underscores a key point: people with EDS may experience unique challenges related to the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. While vaccines remain a critical tool against COVID-19, being informed, cautious, and proactive about connective tissue health is essential. Ongoing research will continue to clarify these risks and help guide care for the EDS community.


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