Unstable Knee

An unstable knee indicates either an injury or underlying medical condition. If you are active in sports, you may have injured a supporting structure, such as the meniscus or a ligament. Conditions including arthritis and osteoarthritis can cause damage in the knee, which may result in a feeling of instability. Without a clinical examination, it is not possible to identify the exact cause of knee instability.

Silicon Valley Orthopaedics can provide a range of nonsurgical treatment options for knee instability, depending on the cause of the issue. A thorough examination will seek to identify any weakness in tendons. Dr. Nic Gay and Dr. Masi Reynolds may order imaging tests to get a clearer picture of the affected structures.

Conservative treatments may include things you can do at home such as resting, icing and elevating the knee to relieve pain and reduce any swelling. However, these recommendations are made after a comprehensive examination has concluded that your unstable knee is not the result of a severe injury.

Dr. Nic Gay and Dr. Masi Reynolds may also recommend surgery to repair damage to ligaments or other structures that have suffered wear and tear. Progressive illnesses, including arthritis and osteoarthritis, can have a significant impact on mobility if left untreated. Do not ignore knee instability or keep attempting to continue treatment at home if your symptoms persist.

Surgical Correction for an Unstable Knee

Dr. Nic Gay and Dr. Masi Reynolds will turn to surgical correction for an unstable knee when conservative measures fail to yield a satisfactory outcome. We aim to preserve the integrity of the joint in all cases, using minimally invasive techniques that help avoid the need for joint replacement procedures.

If you would like to get to the bottom of what is causing your knee instability and benefit from treatment that delivers long-lasting results, book an appointment at Silicon Valley Orthopaedics today.