Chronic joint instability is a condition in which a joint is not properly stabilized and exhibits excessive movement beyond its normal range of motion, even in the absence of acute injury. The condition can affect any joint in the body, but is most common in the shoulders, knees, ankles, and elbows.
Chronic joint instability can be caused by a variety of factors, including ligament and tendon injuries, joint weakness or hypermobility, muscle weakness or imbalance, and previous injury or surgery. In some cases, there may be a genetic predisposition to joint instability.
Symptoms of chronic joint instability may include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and a feeling of looseness or instability in the joint. Activities that involve repetitive or high-impact movements may exacerbate the symptoms. Over time, chronic joint instability can lead to joint degeneration and arthritis
Treatment of chronic joint instability depends on the underlying cause and the severity of the condition. In some cases, nonsurgical treatments such as physical therapy, braces, and activity modification may be sufficient to manage symptoms and improve joint stability. In other cases, surgery may be needed to repair damaged ligaments and other structures in the joint and restore stability.