Joint Instability Specialist

Joint Instability Q & A

What is joint instability?

Joint instability occurs when the supporting components that make up your joint, which includes your muscles, ligaments, and tendons, are damaged or weakened and can no longer hold the joint in place.

Joint instability can affect almost any joint in your body, including:

• Shoulder
• Ankle, foot, toes
• Elbow, wrist, hand, thumb, fingers
• Knee
• Hip 
• Neck

The instability may result from an injury that causes a tear or stretching of the tissue, or from repetitive overuse.

What are the symptoms of joint instability?

The type of symptoms you experience from your joint instability depends on the joint affected. However, in general, some of the most common symptoms include:

• Pain
• Feeling as though the joint is “giving out”
• Constant joint dislocation
• Tenderness

If you’re experiencing these symptoms, contact the team at Orthopedic Specialists to schedule an evaluation.

How is joint instability diagnosed?

The team at Orthopedic Specialists perform comprehensive examinations when you come to the office with concerns about joint health. The goal of the exam is to identify the underlying cause of your symptoms so your doctor can develop the most appropriate treatment plan.

During your evaluation, your doctor reviews your symptoms and medical history. They may also conduct various tests to assess the strength and stability of your affected joint. Diagnostic imaging, such as an X-ray or MRI, may be requested to further assess your joint and pinpoint the source of the instability.

How is joint instability treated?

Treatment for your joint instability is individualized based on the affected joint, the underlying cause, and your symptoms. The team at Orthopedic Specialists may recommend conservative treatments such as:

• Rest
• Anti-inflammatory medication
• Use of a supportive splint or brace
• Physical therapy

Depending on the cause of your joint instability, your doctor at Orthopedic Specialists may recommend the use of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) injections or stem cell therapy to help heal any damaged tissue.

If nonsurgical treatments fail to improve joint health and function, your doctor may suggest minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery to evaluate the structures of your joint and repair any damage.

Joint instability can have a major effect on your quality of life. To get the help you need, call Orthopedic Specialists or schedule an appointment online today.