Joint instability is an issue that can arise with many potential causes. What you probably know as the patient is that your joint feels weak and is not able to function normally. It may also be painful. Joint instability doesn’t have to be a foregone conclusion or something that you have to live with indefinitely. There are several treatment options available depending on the reason that the joint is unstable.
Physical Therapy
One of the best treatments for joint instability is physical therapy. Physical therapy should be tried even if you are also using other treatments. During physical therapy, you will learn exercises that will strengthen the muscles and ligaments that hold the joint in place, particularly during movement. If your joint instability was caused by injury or damage to the tendons, ligaments, or muscles of the joint, it could be completely corrected with physical therapy.
Surgery
The most common treatment for chronic joint instability is surgery with joint repair or replacement. Surgery comes with its own risks, however, and there are other treatments that should be tried first. Many doctors are too quick to suggest joint replacement when other treatment options might suffice. However, surgery is still sometimes the best option.
Alternative Treatments
There are some additional treatments that you can try to improve joint stability. Stem cells and platelet rich plasma are being used in new ways. When these elements are injected into the affected joint, they can stimulate new cell repair and creation, which can heal and strengthen the joint naturally. These treatments often work best when used in conjunction with physical therapy.
If you are suffering from joint instability and want to try to avoid surgery, contact us today for more information or to schedule your appointment.