Dr. Linda Bluestein, MD: A Pioneer in Hypermobility and Integrative Pain Medicine
Dr. Linda Bluestein, M.D.
Dr. Linda Bluestein is a board-certified anesthesiologist and integrative pain medicine physician renowned for her expertise in hypermobility disorders, particularly among dancers and athletes. Her unique combination of medical proficiency and personal experience as a former ballet dancer has positioned her as a leading authority in the field.
Educational Background and Medical Training
Dr. Bluestein earned her Doctor of Medicine from the University of California, Los Angeles School of Medicine. She subsequently completed an anesthesiology residency at the Mayo Graduate School of Medicine, where she also served as Chief Resident. Her board certification by the American Board of Anesthesiology underscores her extensive training and commitment to medical excellence.
Professional Experience and Specialization
With over 20 years of clinical experience, Dr. Bluestein has dedicated her career to understanding and treating hypermobility disorders and chronic pain conditions. Her personal journey with Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome (EDS), a connective tissue disorder, has deeply informed her empathetic approach to patient care. This unique perspective led her to specialize in treating performing artists and athletes, populations at increased risk for hypermobility-related issues.
Hypermobility MD and Bendy Bodies LLC
In her pursuit to provide specialized care, Dr. Bluestein founded Hypermobility MD, a private medical practice focused on hypermobility disorders. Through this platform, she offers individualized treatment plans that integrate conventional medicine with holistic approaches, aiming to improve patients' functional capacity and quality of life.
Recognizing the need for broader educational resources, she also established Bendy Bodies LLC, an EduCoaching program designed to support individuals with hypermobility through comprehensive information and guidance. This initiative reflects her commitment to empowering patients beyond the clinical setting.
Podcasting and Educational Outreach
Dr. Bluestein's dedication to education extends to the digital realm. She is the founder and host of the "Bendy Bodies with the Hypermobility MD" podcast, where she discusses topics related to hypermobility, chronic pain, and dance medicine with experts and patients alike. This platform has become a valuable resource for individuals seeking to understand and manage hypermobility disorders.
Academic Contributions and Publications
As an accomplished author, Dr. Bluestein has contributed to the medical community through various publications. Notably, she authored two chapters in the book "Disjointed – Navigating the Diagnosis and Management of Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome and Hypermobility Spectrum Disorders," providing insights into the complexities of these conditions. Her work is widely recognized for its depth and practical application.
Dr. Bluestein's influence extends to several esteemed organizations. She serves on the Allergy and Immunology Working Group for the International Consortium on EDS and HSD, the Medical Advisory Board for Standing Up to POTS, and the Board of Directors for the Bridge Dance Project. Additionally, she chairs the Pain Management Committee for the EDS Research Foundation and is a member of the Resources Committee for the Dance Healthy Alliance of Canada. These roles highlight her commitment to advancing research, education, and support for individuals with hypermobility disorders.
Academic Appointments and Teaching
Beyond her clinical practice, Dr. Bluestein has contributed to medical education as an assistant professor at the Medical College of Wisconsin, Central Wisconsin. In this capacity, she directed the RISHI Healer’s Art Program, emphasizing the importance of empathy and holistic care in medical training.
Personal Connection to Dance and Hypermobility
Dr. Bluestein's passion for dance and personal experience with hypermobility have profoundly influenced her career trajectory. Her own challenges with EDS curtailed her aspirations of becoming a professional ballet dancer, fueling her dedication to supporting others facing similar obstacles. This personal connection enhances her empathy and effectiveness as a clinician and educator.
Conclusion
Dr. Linda Bluestein's multifaceted career embodies a blend of clinical excellence, innovative education, and compassionate advocacy. Her contributions have significantly advanced the understanding and management of hypermobility disorders, offering hope and improved quality of life to countless individuals.
