What Is Knee Instability?
Knee instability can occur if the knee or a supporting structure, such as a ligament, becomes weakened or damaged such that the joint is unable to fully support the weight of the body. This type of injury can result from a sudden twist or direct blow that forces the knee to buckle or bend beyond its normal limit.
Instability can cause the knee to noticeably shift from side to side during basic activities. The resulting excess movement can create excess wear and tear on the joint, leading to the breakdown of cartilage (osteoarthritis).
What are the symptoms of knee instability?
An unstable knee may:
- Buckle or give out
- Catch or lock
- Appear puffy or swollen
- Bend inward or outward
To pinpoint the source of these symptoms, a physician will typically evaluate each of the bones, cartilage structures, ligaments, tendons and muscles that work together to support the knee joint. After performing a physical examination and testing the stability of the knee, a physician may order one or more imaging tests, such as an X-rays, MRI or CT scan.
How is knee instability treated?
Treatment for knee instability can vary depending on the injured structure and the extent of the damage. Initially, a physician may recommend conservative treatment, such as rest, ice applications, compression and elevation of the leg (R.I.C.E. therapy), followed by physical therapy and bracing, if necessary. Any associated pain and inflammation can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relievers and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen and naproxen.
To address severe symptoms that do not respond to several weeks of nonsurgical treatment, surgery may be recommended. For instance, a surgeon may perform a surgical repair or reconstruction of the supporting structures.
At Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, Texas, we typically encourage our patients to try nonsurgical treatment options for knee instability before considering joint replacement or any other type of surgery. If you’d like to meet with a knee specialist, contact Advanced Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine of Houston, TX, today.
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1Professional Building II At North Cypress Medical Center
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2North Cypress Professional Building At Lakewood Crossing
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3North Cypress Professional Building At Towne Lake
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4Advanced Orthopaedics Memorial
What Our Patients Are Saying
So I was going to get on here and brag about what a great surgeon Dr. Cubbage is. But Cubbage is only 3/4 of the picture. He’ll fix you, but Karen is the one that will care for you and heal you! Facts are looks like dozens of people have already beat me to all of the brag I want to dish to these 2 people. I will leave it with one thing – Dr. Cubbage and Karen gave me my life back! Do I need to say more?
So I was going to get on here and brag about what a great surgeon Dr. Cubbage is. But Cubbage is only 3/4 of the picture. He’ll fix you, but Karen is the one that will care for you and heal you! Facts are looks like dozens of people have already beat me to all of the brag I want to dish to these 2 people. I will leave it with one thing – Dr. Cubbage and Karen gave me my life back! Do I need to say more?
Dr. Bacon is fantastic. While she may not always be the most personable, she is extremely knowledgeable. My ankle has been bothering me for years and other doctors have dismissed me. She took the time to do a thorough exam and understand my body mechanics to get to a diagnosis
I just think that this is the best health care facility to this day. I truly appreciate all
The PT, so far they are considerit. It’s excellent
and it just make me do more.
Thank you
This office did everything they could to get me in timely after a very bad sprain on my ankle. I saw nurse practitioner Stuart who is very thorough and x-rays and explaining everything to me. I would definitely recommend advanced orthopaedics for anyone With something broken or sprained
I never review places or services on Facebook, but I could not let others know how blessed I was to have Dr. Cubbage as my surgeon. He and his lovely staff, including awesome Karen, have truly taken care of during this difficult time. I am thrilled to say that I’m quickly on the mend and I’ll be back in the classroom very soon! Love this practice!!
I was in pain for a couple of months and went to see Dr. Cubbage. He knew right away by the way my posture what the issue was. He had me scheduled in and he along with his staff were awesome. After my surgery, I felt 100 % better. I had a few follow up visits and he along with his staff were genuinely attentive to my concerns and needs. I was also not in his network and his staff helped me out with that as well. I highly recommend him for people that have back or neck issues.
Dr. Cubbage & Staff replaced a disc that had been destroyed between my 4th and 5th vertebra. This is my 4th month since the surgery in January of 2018. I was very impressed with their dedication and professional approach to helping me live a more productive life. I am a 70 year old wife, mother and grandmother. Feel very blessed. Sincerely!
Excellent experience. The doctor, staff, office services and hospital care were outstanding before, during and after the procedure. Thank you – Heathgrades, Dr. Cubbage review