LA Orthopedic Group can help you to effectively relieve Joint Instability symptoms.
Joint instability occurs when important tissues in the body, such as bones, ligaments, and muscles begin to weaken. Once this happens they aren’t able to keep the bones where they’re supposed to be any longer.
- While joints are inherently flexible, they must also have strength and stability work properly
- Joint instability can be a cause of pain and discomfort
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Causes of Instability
Joint instability does not have one single cause. Multiple things can contribute to the condition including an injury like a fall that tears ligaments or dislocates the joint or repeatedly using the joint in a single motion, such as swimming or working in a factory. Some individuals are born more prone to instability due to having looser joints, which is commonly referred to as being “double-jointed.”
Signs and Symptoms
The symptoms of instability vary depending on which joint is being affected. Common symptoms of a joint being unstable are pain in the region, particularly right after an injury, repeatedly dislocating the joint, tenderness in the area or a feeling of weakness in the joint.
Reaching a Diagnosis
Joint instability will need to be diagnosed by a doctor with knowledge in the area. He will ask about the condition you’re experiencing and conduct an exam in the area to observe it. They will push and feel around to determine if the joint appears to be weak or loose as opposed to stable like it should be. Your doctor can also conduct more extensive tests to solidify the diagnosis. An X-ray gives the doctor images of the bones affected, while an MRI or magnetic resonance image can show the ligaments, tendons, and muscles being affected.
Treatment
The treatment plan your doctor designs for you needs to be individually focused to ensure it is effective at easing your pain and discomfort. A procedure to fix joint instability in your shoulder will be different than one on your knee. Nonsurgical options include resting the joint, using anti-inflammatory drugs or regularly using a brace or splint to ease stress on the joint.
A more aggressive course of treatment may be required if the conservative approach isn’t effective. Surgery may be necessary to restore strength to the joint and re-stabilize it. A tiny incision or open cut can be made to correct the problem depending on how severe it is and where. There will be a period of healing time, and you’ll likely need to follow-up with physical therapy to regain the range of motion you once had. Physical therapy also helps restore strength over time.
Seek medical advice if you are experiencing problems with your joints. It’s better to seek treatment sooner rather than later to prevent damage and additional deterioration.