Unstable Knee

Unstable Knee

An unstable knee is a condition in which the knee joint feels loose or wobbly, making it difficult to bear weight or move the leg. This condition can be caused by damage to the ligaments, cartilage, or other structures in and around the knee joint.

What Are The Causes Of An Unstable Knee?

An unstable knee occurs when the supportive structures of the knee joint become damaged, resulting in a wobbly or loose feeling in the knee. Some common causes of an unstable knee include:

  • Ligament injuries: The knee has four main ligaments that help to stabilize the joint. Damage to any of these ligaments can result in an unstable knee.
  • Meniscus tears: The meniscus is a C-shaped piece of cartilage that acts as a cushion between the femur and tibia. Tears in the meniscus can cause the knee to feel unstable.
  • Osteoarthritis: This condition causes the cushioning cartilage tissue between the bones to wear down over time, leading to joint instability.
  • Sports injuries: High-impact activities or sports can cause damage to the supportive structures of the knee, resulting in instability.

What Are The Symptoms Of Unstable Knee?

An unstable knee can refer to a knee that gives way, feels wobbly or loose, or feels like it may buckle or collapse. Here are some common symptoms of an unstable knee:

  • Recurrent knee giving way or instability
  • Feeling of knee buckling or collapsing
  • Knee feels wobbly or loose
  • Pain or discomfort in the knee joint
  • Swelling or inflammation around the knee joint
  • Difficulty walking or standing
  • Clicking or popping sounds in the knee joint
  • Inability to bear weight on the affected leg
  • Limited range of motion in the knee joint

What Are The Methods For Diagnosing Unstable Knee Condition?

If you exhibit these symptoms, your doctor will likely conduct a comprehensive physical examination to assess the stability of each ligament and may request diagnostic imaging tests like X-rays, MRI, or CT scans to confirm the diagnosis of knee instability.