AboutJoe A Shaw PA-C Expertise Most general questions that have to do with orthopedic and /or occupational medicine or ergonomics. With a focus on upper extremity disorders such as carpal tunnel syndrome. After many years of treating and diagnosing carpal tunnel syndrome I have developed a detailed website about carpal tunnel syndrome at Carpal-Tunnel-Symptoms.com
Experience I have been a board certified Physician Assistant for 17 years, in the fields of occupational and orthopedic medicine.
Organizations American Academy of Physician Assistants, State Academy of Physician Assistants.
Education/Credentials Physician Assistant degree from the University of Florida College of Medicine PA program. Bachelor of Health and Science degree. Board Certified Physician Assistant, Ergonomic certification, University of Michigan ergonomics certification. Associate Science degree in Emergency Medical Technology. Former Paramedic, EMT and Firefighter.
Awards and Honors Current certifications in Advanced Cardiac Life support, and Basic life support, and CPR certification. University of Michigan Ergonomic training and certification.
Expert: Joe A Shaw PA-C Date: 5/13/2008 Subject: Knee Problems.....
Question When I stand up my knee bows backwards extremely far almost 15-20 degrees. I've been told this is called "cheerleaders knee" Also When running or anything pivoting my "bad" knee it will Separate and fold sideways. This is extremely painful and it swells and is almost un-useable for several days. This started in High School during running suicides for basketball and football but has progressively become worse. I have had it checked out and they want to do a MRI and said that I have extremely "loose" knees and it worried him, but he didn't explain it any further. I've been told there is no MCL or ACL by several people who have had knee surgery and problems. What could be wrong with my knee, and what form of therapy can I use to strengthen it to so I may be active again? And if at all possible without surgery. Thank You Branden
Answer I am fairly certain you have hypermobility joint syndrome..or "floppy joint syndrome"...This article by an MD gives good info more than I could type...
You need an MRI to make sure you dont alos have a torn meniscus etc..if thats okay then PT may help a little to tighten up the ligaments...but if its been like this since birth..(but noticing it more w sports and activity)
then Im not sure if it will help that much, but its worth a try. You need a PT who does a lot of sports medicine rehab..
