Causes and risk factors
Ligamentous laxity is caused due to certain genetic factor. The exact cause is not known, however. It is especially seen in people who are suffering from diseases like Down syndrome, Marfan syndrome, etc. Diseases of the bones and muscles also contribute to the same. Injury to the ligaments or trauma causing tear of tendon and muscle fibers are other factors responsible.
Clinical presentation:
Ligamentous injury is one of the major causes of chronic pain. Impaction of the ligaments all over the body leads to hypermobility of joints. Loose ligaments fail to support the bone efficiently, thus these individuals become more prone for easy sprains and fractures. It leads to weakness of the affected part. Overall weakness is seen leading to chronic fatigue syndrome. These individuals can easily touch their thumb to the forearm or easily touch the hands flat on the ground while bending through the waist. Instability during activity is seen leading to premature arthritis. Some may experience referred pain. Over a period of time, these individuals tend to suffer from osteoarthritis, nerve compression, uterine prolapse, or varicose vein.
Investigations:
Considering the symptoms, a local examination is carried out by the orthopedic doctor. The range of the mobility of joints is measured. A simple test to see how far the index finger can bend backwards is carried out. History of the complaints is noted so as to find out other underlying causes or associated diseases. Investigations like MRI or CT scan, etc., are carried out.
Treatment:
The conservative mode of treatment is the most effective one. It consists of treating the underlying bone and muscle disorders. Medications to allay the pain are given. Ligament injection therapy or prolotherapy is also an effective therapeutic measure. It comprises of injecting proliferant drug causing artificial inflammatory process whereby healing is initiated by formation of a new collagen tissue in the ligament. Physiotherapy exercises play an important role in this. Hyperextension of the joints should be avoided. Massage can also be done. The patient undergoes training for strengthening the muscles under authorized guidance. Surgical intervention is usually not so effective in ligamentous laxity.
Other Modes of treatment:
Certain other modes of treatment can also be helpful in coping up with the symptoms. Taking into consideration the symptoms in a holistic way, homoeopathy can offer a good aid for the relief of the symptoms. The Ayurvedic system of medicine which uses herbs and synthetic derivatives can also be beneficial in combating the complaints. Certain yoga exercises can also be helpful in strengthening the muscles.
