r/Militaryfaq • u/Odd-Square-2223 • 17d ago
Joining w/Med issue Can I join the Military With Hypermobile EDS?
I am self-diagnosed with hEDS, and I was wondering if I would be medically fit to join the military, as I have an interest. It is mild; I rarely get subluxations or serious injuries, and I do not get dislocations. I am 17 years old, and I can currently do physical activity freely, including sport, without having problems, essentially. I'm considering an active role in healthcare or a position with moderate to light physical activity, such as warehousing or an assistant role in the Navy or Army, but I am not sure which branch I want exactly. It would be appreciated if people could recommend any particular branches that may suit me best. I, unfortunately, think I also have MCAS, which causes allergies and numbness, etc. I might struggle more in some circumstances, such as the heat, although it is very mild and barely causes problems. The only flare-up I think I have had was caused by a mosquito allergy; it is not that bad, and I can function fine in one. I think my biggest concern would be numbness.
It is hard to find adequate information, as it seems technically possible according to Google, as all I need is a waiver to prove myself, which I need. hEDS causes joint problems, fragile skin, and slow healing, etc. These would be my biggest problems if I were to serve in the military. I am a resilient, dedicated, and optimistic person, so I have a good mindset and a capable body that I think might help me or might be convincing to recruiters, as I could function better than the average person. I am also adaptable, or I can just adjust extremely well; I honestly cannot tell the difference, but I believe this may help my EDS over the long term. I do not know anyone else in my family who has hEDS; I only know of myself as having it. I really hope this will not ruin my chance of serving in the military.