Joint stability refers to the resistance offered by various musculoskeletal tissues that surround a skeletal joint. Several subsystems ensure the stability of a joint. These are the passive, active and neural subsystems.[1] It is believed that one or more of the subsystems must have failed if joint instability occurs, usually a torn or overstretched ligament. Instability of joints can cause unhealthy ranges of movement in your joints, which can result in the joints fracturing.[citation needed]
The bony components that may relate to the potential for joint instability can be measured by use of x-rays. Plain film lateral x-rays can be used to evaluate for translations anteriorly (anterolisthesis) or posteriorly (retrolisthesis). Where plain films indicate the likelihood of these translations being significant, flexion-extension views can be utilized to determine the dynamic range of movement of joints. This allows for a more accurate view of any potential instability issues.[2]
See also
editReferences
edit- ^ Panjabi MM. (1992). "The stabilizing system of the spine. Part II. Neutral zone and instability hypothesis". J Spinal Disord. 5 (4): 390–7. doi:10.1097/00002517-199212000-00002. PMID 1490035.
- ^ Cocchiarella, L.; Andersson G. (1993). American Medical Association Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, Ed 5. Chicago Il. USA: American Medical Association. p. 98. ISBN 0-89970-553-7.
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