Freedom Therapy MFR
About
Monika Szumilak, LMT, PhD, is an Expert Myofascial Release (MFR) therapist specializing in gentle, fascia-focused care for people living with Ehlers-Danlos syndromes and hypermobility spectrum disorders. Through Freedom Therapy MFR in Tucson, AZ, Monika supports children and adults with chronic pain, instability, and post-surgical recovery using John F. Barnes–trained MFR and craniosacral fascial techniques tailored to fragile, hypermobile tissues. She offers one-on-one in‑person sessions as well as online MFR therapy and coaching to help clients worldwide understand their bodies, build safer movement strategies, and reduce flare‑ups. Her approach emphasizes nervous system regulation, pacing, and long‑term self‑treatment skills so individuals with EDS/HSD can participate more fully in daily life with less pain and fear of injury.
EDS Healthcare in Arizona
The Center for Complex Neurology, EDS & POTS in Phoenix, led by Dr. David Saperstein, follows over 2,500 EDS patients and is one of the most experienced EDS practices in the country. Mayo Clinic Scottsdale offers a connective tissue disorders program. The Arizona Genetics Alliance provides genetic counseling resources statewide.
While Phoenix and Scottsdale have strong EDS resources, Arizona's vast rural areas — particularly in the northern and eastern regions — face significant travel barriers to specialist care. AHCCCS (Arizona Medicaid) covers genetic testing including Rapid Whole Genome Sequencing, which is a notable benefit.
Finding Massage / Bodywork for EDS
Ask whether the therapist modifies pressure for hypermobile patients and avoids deep tissue work near unstable joints.