Joint stability

{{short description|Ability of the musculoskeletal system to enable precise motion about a joint}}

'''Joint stability''' refers to the resistance offered by various [[Musculoskeletal system|musculoskeletal]] tissues that surround a skeletal [[joint]]. Several subsystems ensure the stability of a joint. These are the passive, active and neural subsystems.<ref>{{cite journal | author = Panjabi MM. | title = The stabilizing system of the spine. Part II. Neutral zone and instability hypothesis. | journal = J Spinal Disord | volume = 5 | issue = 4 | pages = 390–7 | year = 1992 | doi = 10.1097/00002517-199212000-00002| pmid = 1490035 }}</ref> It is believed that one or more of the subsystems must have failed if joint instability occurs, usually a [[Sprain|torn]] or overstretched [[ligament]]. Instability of joints can cause unhealthy [[Flexibility (anatomy)|ranges of movement]] in joints, which can result in the joints [[Bone fracture|fracturing]].{{cn|date=August 2024}}

The bony components that may relate to the potential for joint instability can be measured by use of [[x-ray]]s. 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.<ref>{{cite book | last = Cocchiarella | first = L. |author2=Andersson G. | title = American Medical Association Guides to the Evaluation of Permanent Impairment, Ed 5 | publisher = American Medical Association | date = 1993 | location = Chicago Il. USA | pages = 98 | isbn = 0-89970-553-7}}</ref>

== See also == * [[Ligamentous laxity]]

== References == {{reflist}}

[[Category:Physical therapy]]