Hypermobility spectrum disorders (HSD) are connective tissue disorders that cause joint hypermobility, instability, injury, and pain. Other problems such as fatigue, headaches, GI problems, and autonomic dysfunction are often seen as part of HSD.⁠ ⁠ A spectrum disorder refers to a condition that has wide variation in both the type and severity of symptoms people experience. For example, people with HSD may have mild or severe joint involvement. They may also experience one, two, or many other symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, constipation, or headaches, and any of these problems may be mild or severe.⁠ ⁠ Two different people with HSD may experience very different symptoms. For example, one person with HSD may have severe joint instability, fatigue, and autonomic dysfunction. Another person with HSD may have mild joint instability but severe headaches and gastrointestinal issues. Both people experience HSD differently, but neither person has “more HSD” than the other. ⁠ ⁠ The hypermobility spectrum disorders can cause a variety of symptoms in different areas of the body. Therefore, people with HSD may require multiple providers in different specialties to manage their care. There are no disease-specific treatments for HSD, so HSD is managed by managing each individual’s symptoms. People with HSD may have very different symptoms and respond differently to different management strategies. Each person should work with their care team to develop a care plan that meets their individual needs. ⁠ ⁠ Learn more at the linkinbio about HSD. Images: We are so grateful to all those illustrators who have worked within their own spaces, research papers, and with medical and advocacy organizations who have used visuals to explain spectrum disorders like this about what it really means, almost all of which to date has been autism spectrum disorder. They have paved the way for people being able to understand more effectively what a spectrum disorder is, for people to be represented and validated, and for understanding from society and professionals. We are grateful to those researching The Spider and other research using visuals to show the complexities of HSD and of EDS.