Joint Instability, Subluxations and Dislocations: What Physiotherapy Can Focus On
Repeated slipping, giving way or dislocation can be frightening. Physiotherapy focuses on control, strength, confidence and reducing avoidable instability.
What joint instability can feel like
Instability can range from a vague sense that a joint is unreliable to repeated giving way, partial slipping or a full dislocation. The rehabilitation plan should reflect what is actually happening rather than assuming every click or unusual sensation represents the same problem.
Do not repeatedly test the unstable position
Repeatedly pushing a joint towards the position where it slips does not train stability. A more useful approach is to identify a controlled range and gradually build strength, endurance and confidence from there.
What physiotherapy can target
Rehabilitation may work on strength around the affected joint, proprioception, movement strategies, confidence after a previous episode and graded exposure to the loads required for everyday life. The exact exercise depends on the joint and the person’s goals.
When further assessment matters
A recent traumatic dislocation, rapidly increasing episodes, major swelling, a limb that becomes cold or pale, new weakness or numbness, or a joint that cannot be managed in the usual way should not simply be treated as routine hypermobility.
A more detailed physiotherapy resource
For a more complete step-by-step resource, see the Complete Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder & Hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome Physiotherapy, Rehabilitation & Self-Management Guide. The 227-page digital guide brings the wider education, self-management and exercise approach together, with 39 adaptable exercises across four pathways and linked video demonstrations.
Related reading
This article provides general physiotherapy education and does not replace individual assessment, diagnosis or treatment. New, severe or rapidly changing symptoms should be assessed by an appropriate healthcare professional.
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