What Is Spinal Ligament Instability, and How Can I Get a Diagnosis?
Spinal ligament instability is a condition that occurs when the ligaments that support the spine are damaged or weakened. This can cause excessive spinal movement as well as pain, nerve irritation, and other symptoms. At Northgate Chiropractic Clinic, we use a variety of diagnostic imaging tests, including CRMA and Digital Motion X-rays, for diagnosing ligament instability and determining the precise location and extent. Learn more about ligament instability testing in Rochester, MN.
What Is Spinal Ligament Instability?
Your spinal ligaments are thick, strong, fibrous tissues that connect the bones in your spine. They stabilize your spine and its joints and support movement. If these ligaments are damaged or weakened, your spine can become unstable, which causes your vertebrae to move more than necessary. This can cause pain and other problems.
Types of Ligament Instability Conditions
Spinal instability can be caused by traumatic injuries, age-related degeneration of the spine, infection or tumors, or congenital abnormalities. The types of ligament instability conditions include:
- Atlanto-axial instability (AAI) – This condition occurs when the upper two vertebrae of the neck move abnormally, compressing the spinal cord or nerve roots.
- CCI (craniocervical instability) – This condition occurs when there is instability in the cervical spine or the neck region involving the first two cervical vertebrae, C1 and C2.
- Spondylolisthesis – This condition occurs when one vertebra slips forward over another.
- Oncological instability – This condition is caused by tumors in the spine that cause instability.
- Infectious instability – This condition is caused by infections in the spine that cause instability.
Symptoms of Ligament Instability
The most common symptoms of ligament instability include:
- Back or neck pain
- Shoulder pain
- Hip pain
- Pain that radiates down the arms or legs
- Muscle spasms or weakness
- Numbness or tingling
- Stiffness and limited movement
Getting a Diagnosis of Ligament Instability
We will first ask you about your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and any recent injuries. We will then perform a thorough physical exam. Next, we will take diagnostic images, such as an x-ray, digital motion x-ray, or CRMA. We will analyze these images and measure the distances and angles between the vertebrae in your spine to determine the precise location and extent of instability.
Make an Appointment for Ligament Testing Today
If you suspect that you have a spinal ligament injury or spinal instability, our team of experienced chiropractors at Northgate Chiropractic Clinic can help. We can perform a full evaluation and ligament instability testing in Rochester, MN, to determine the specific location and extent of your injury. To learn more, call us now or request an appointment online.
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Chiropractic
Ligament Instability
