Ligamentous laxity is precisely what it sounds like, lax ligaments that no longer perform the function of keeping your joint supported and strong. This issue can lead to repeated dislocations of a joint, joint instability, and chronic pain.
As an orthopedic surgeon, San Francisco-based Dr. Jeffrey Halbrecht at The Institute for Arthroscopy & Sports Medicine (IASM) in San Francisco, California, can evaluate your ligament injury and determine if arthroscopic surgery can resolve the problem.
Your joints consist of complex, interconnected systems made up of bones, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Some of the most common injuries for athletes occur when a ligament is stretched or torn. With repeated small injuries, ligamentous laxity is increasingly likely to occur.
When ligaments become lax due to repeated micro-tears or stretching, the result is often instability of the joint and accompanying pain. Other parts of the body have to work harder to make up the deficit, and stress is radiated through the injured ligament to other parts of the joint.
Ligament issues can mean you’re more prone to subluxation or dislocation of that shoulder joint. This means you need help from a shoulder surgeon in San Francisco. Dr. Halbrecht sees many patents with shoulder instability, and can correctly identify if your issue is due to ligamentous laxity.,
Ankle ligaments are also subject to the dangers of ligamentous laxity. Women in particular are at risk, especially in sports like soccer or volleyball. Skiers can also find themselves suffering from ligamentous laxity of the ankle. If you’re constantly straining or spraining your ankle, a lax ligament could be to blame.
In the knee, the most common ligament injury is to the anterior cruciate ligament. A torn ACL can be serious, curtailing your participation in sports for a lengthy period of time without the assistance of a highly skilled ACL doctor. San Francisco residents can get help with ligament tears and laxity from repeated injuries from Dr. Halbrecht.
Even ligaments supporting the hip can become lax. This is more common in older female patients who suffer from groin pain, hip impingement, and/or labral tears. Arthroscopic surgery can usually successfully repair damage and restore flexibility, strength, and range of motion.
Arthroscopy is typically used to treat ligamentous laxity and improve joint stability. Dr. Halbrecht performs a complete examination before recommending ligament treatment to ensure the best possible outcome for each patient.
Advantages of arthroscopic surgery include:
If you’re experiencing joint pain and instability, schedule a consultation with Dr. Halbrecht and his team to learn more about your options. To get in touch, call 415-233-7996, or book an appointment online.
