Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Specialists in Florida

Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS) is increasingly recognized within the medical community as a genetic disorder that significantly impacts the body's connective tissues, which are crucial for providing support and elasticity to the skin, joints, and vascular structures. Despite its growing recognition and the frequency with which it is diagnosed, there remains a pronounced shortage of healthcare professionals who possess a deep understanding and expertise in diagnosing and managing EDS, as well as its related condition, Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder (HSD). This gap in specialist care is even more evident when considering the management of conditions commonly associated with EDS, such as Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS) and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). These conditions require a thoughtful and well-informed treatment approach.

Many patients are often uncertain about which type of medical specialist is best equipped to address and manage their EDS. In our experience as patients, we have found that while medical specialization is indeed valuable, the individual healthcare provider's commitment to understanding EDS and their experience with the condition are more important. In Florida, as is the case in many other regions, EDS specialists are hard to find. Often, the most effective strategy for patients is to find a healthcare professional who is committed to working with you to understand the unique way that EDS presents in your body.

Finding a healthcare professional with the right mix of knowledge, empathy, and willingness to tackle the challenges of EDS head-on can be a daunting task, especially in areas where such specialists are scarce. However, the impact of establishing a collaborative and understanding patient-provider relationship cannot be overstated for those navigating the intricacies of living with EDS. Below, we are compiling a list of providers in Idaho who understand Ehlers Danlos Syndrome. Some of these providers are on our team, and some are part of separate clinics across Florida.

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EDS Specialists Serving Florida:

Carolyn Martinez, MSN, RN, FNP

Carolyn Martinez provides medical care to patients across Florida including both diagnoses and treatment for the Trifecta as well as other related conditions.

• Specialization: EDS, HSD, MCAS, POTS
• Location: Telehealth available across Florida
• Wait Time for Appointments:  6 month
• Website: Carolyn Martinez, MSN, RN, FNP

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Carolyn Martinez, MSN, RN, FNP is a Board-Certified Family Nurse Practitioner with over 15 years of experience in urgent care, primary care, and cardiology. Fluent in both English and Spanish, she has devoted her career to serving diverse and underserved communities across California, New Mexico, and Florida.

For the past six years, Carolyn has increasingly specialized in supporting patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), gastrointestinal dysmotility, and chronic pain. She has completed EDS ECHO training through the Ehlers-Danlos Society and has played a key role in diagnosing and caring for patients with complex, often overlooked conditions. In addition to her clinical work, she trains other providers to recognize and treat EDS, helping expand awareness and access to quality care.

Carolyn holds a Master of Science in Nursing from the University of California, San Francisco, and a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health from Johns Hopkins University, where she was inducted into Phi Beta Kappa. Known for her warmth and empathy, patients often describe feeling truly seen, heard, and validated under her care. As one patient shared, “The caring, empathy, kindness, professionalism, knowledge, helpfulness—I could go on and on—made me feel so hopeful. I felt seen and heard and validated and got answers I needed!” Carolyn’s dedication and compassion make her a trusted advocate for the EDS community.

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James Harris, MD

Dr. Harris is well versed in EDS and HSD. He works with The EDS Clinic to support patients across the United States.

• Specialization: EDS, HSD, MCAS, POTS
• Location: Telehealth available across Florida
• Wait Time for Appointments:  6 month
• Website: Jim Harris, MD's Profile

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Dr. Jim Harris, MD is the Medical Director of The EDS Clinic and a nationally recognized leader in the care of complex immunological and connective tissue conditions.

For over 30 years, Dr. Harris has dedicated his career to helping patients with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), Mast Cell Activation Syndrome (MCAS), and Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS). Board certified in Pediatrics and Allergy & Immunology, he has led nearly 300 clinical research studies—including groundbreaking work on Xolair for MCAS—and frequently speaks at national and international conferences such as Dysautonomia International and The Ehlers-Danlos Society. Beyond his clinical expertise, Dr. Harris is committed to training other providers and expanding access to care for patients who often struggle to find answers elsewhere.

Patients describe Dr. Harris as compassionate, thorough, and life-changing in his impact. Many share that he is the first doctor to truly listen and validate their symptoms. One patient wrote, “Dr. Harris’ experience, kindness, and compassion are priceless to those struggling and looking for answers,” while another shared, “After months of suffering, he got me so much better in just a few weeks.” Stories like these reflect what so many patients say about Dr. Harris: that his deep knowledge, attentive care, and dedication have given them hope and a path forward.

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What kind of specialist diagnoses and treates Ehlers Danlos Syndrome?

Which medical specialists are qualified to diagnose and treat Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS)? For diagnostic accuracy, especially with Classical and Vascular types of EDS, genetic testing is often necessary to identify specific genetic mutations. Such genetic insights are crucial for developing targeted treatment plans and setting realistic expectations for both patients and healthcare providers. Nevertheless, it's crucial to note that a significant number of EDS cases, particularly those within the Hypermobility category, cannot be conclusively diagnosed through genetic testing alone. Diagnosing Hypermobility Type EDS and related Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders predominantly depends on a thorough clinical assessment and the diagnosing physician's expertise, underscoring the importance of a provider's clinical judgment in lieu of genetic evidence.

The nature of EDS and its accompanying conditions necessitates an integrated care approach, calling for the involvement of specialists across a range of medical disciplines, including but not limited to rheumatology, cardiology, immunology, and genetics. This collaborative approach ensures a holistic and comprehensive management strategy, tailored to address the diverse symptoms and complications encountered by individuals with EDS.

In summary, navigating the complexities of Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and its associated conditions requires the involvement of deeply committed and experienced healthcare professionals. Individuals affected by EDS are advised to seek care from specialists who not only have a thorough understanding of the syndrome and its various manifestations but also demonstrate a profound dedication to appreciating and addressing the unique characteristics of each patient's condition.

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