Ligament Laxity: A Missed Diagnosis from a Car Crash

Photo Credit: Paolese

Ligament laxity is also known as ligamentous instability. It is a condition that causes chronic pain and may affect any joint in the body. It is important to note that ligament laxity consists of those joints that extend beyond their normal range of motion.

According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgery, the most everyday soft-tissue injuries occur in or around the ligaments, tendons, and muscles.

Sudden trauma causes acute injuries. Sudden trauma includes a twist, fall, or sharp blow to any body part.

Examples of acute injuries include:

• Contusions
• Sprains
• Strains

What are some other types of ligament laxity?

It is also important to note that other soft tissues in the body are prone to injury. This includes the heart, lungs, brain, or other organs in the body. But medically, soft tissue injuries are usually limited to the tendons, ligaments, and muscles.

A closer examination of the structure of ligaments, tendons, and muscles shows that they’re connective tissues. The National Institute of Health defines connective tissues as “the material inside your body that supports many of its parts.” It shapes your tissues and keeps them strong.

What causes ligament laxity?

Ligament laxity results from extreme flexibility of the ligaments that surround your joints. The extreme flexibility of the ligaments allows these joints to move beyond their normal range of motion. Ligament laxity in most individuals is genetic and may start at a young age. At least one joint may be affected, and in some cases, the entire body (known as general joint hypermobility).

Ligament laxity also occurs after a damaged ligament fails to heal correctly. As a result, the affected ligament loosens or becomes lax and does not support the joint as well as it should. In severe cases, joint damage may cause ligament laxity, especially when the joint moves beyond its normal position. If ligament instability occurs in the spine region, the patient may suffer disc degeneration or osteoarthritis. Shoulder dislocations and sprained ankles are…