Multidirectional Instability >> FAQs
What is MDI?
MDI refers to a multidirectional laxity of the shoulder joint with associated instability.
The instability generally results from stretching of the shoulder's supporting ligaments, which leads to
increased movement of the glenohumeral joint.
Will physical therapy succeed?
Research suggests that many patients (80%) will improve with physical therapy alone.
The patient's diligence and commitment to a daily maintenance program is required for the best
chance of success.
How much motion loss will I experience if surgery is needed to stabilize
my shoulder?
Motion loss varies. The normal range of shoulder motion at 90 degrees
of
abduction (elbow pointing away from the body) is
from 80-120 degrees of
external (outward)
rotation
(the higher number is seen in patients who have developed increased
motion for throwing sports). After a surgical stabilization, a stable
shoulder will have on average about 90 degrees of external rotation
at 90 degrees of abduction. Preliminary results show that arthroscopic
procedures may reduce motion loss, but these are still being evaluated.
If I don't want a big incision, can this procedure be performed
arthroscopically?
Arthroscopic techniques continue to evolve and improve. The short-term follow up data suggests that the
success rates of arthroscopic repairs may equal those of open procedures. Although the initial results are
very encouraging, further long-term studies are required to validate them.
References
