Shoulder arthroscopy may be recommended if you experience persistent shoulder pain, limited range of motion, weakness, clicking or popping sounds, and swelling. These symptoms often indicate underlying issues such as rotator cuff tears, labral tears, or other shoulder joint problems that can be effectively diagnosed and treated through arthroscopy.

Key Points:

• Persistent or intermittent pain in the shoulder joint.
• Difficulty moving the shoulder freely.
• Reduced strength or stability in the shoulder.
• Unusual noises or sensations in the shoulder.
• Inflammation or swelling around the shoulder joint.

To diagnose shoulder issues, we start with a thorough review of your medical history and symptoms. A physical examination assesses mobility and strength. Imaging tests like MRI or X-rays provide detailed views of the shoulder structures. Arthroscopy may be performed for direct visualization, allowing precise diagnosis and evaluation of internal damage. In some cases, lab tests are used to rule out infections or systemic conditions.

Key Points:

• Assessment of symptoms and previous injuries.
• Evaluation of shoulder mobility and strength.
• MRI or X-rays to visualize internal structures.
• Direct visualization of the shoulder joint for accurate diagnosis.
• Blood tests if an infection or systemic condition is suspected.

Shoulder arthroscopy is performed by making small incisions in the shoulder. After administering anesthesia, a tiny camera (arthroscope) is inserted to view the internal structures. Specialized instruments are used to repair or remove damaged tissue. The procedure is minimally invasive, resulting in less tissue damage and a quicker recovery. Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips.

Key Points:

• Patient is positioned comfortably and anesthesia is administered.
• Tiny cuts are made in the shoulder for the arthroscope and instruments.
• A small camera is inserted to view the shoulder joint.
• Specialized tools are used to repair or remove damaged tissue.
• Incisions are closed with sutures or steri-strips.

Treatment is essential to alleviate pain, restore shoulder function, and correct damage. Without intervention, shoulder issues can lead to increased pain, reduced mobility, and further injury. Arthroscopy provides a precise method to address and repair damage, ultimately enhancing your quality of life and allowing you to return to normal activities.

Key Points:

• Alleviates chronic pain that impacts daily activities.
• Improves range of motion and shoulder strength.
• Repairs tears or damage to the shoulder structures.
• Addresses issues before they worsen.
• Helps patients return to normal activities and improve their overall well-being.

Recovery from shoulder arthroscopy involves immediate post-operative care, including rest and pain management. Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing progress and address any concerns. Proper wound care is crucial to prevent infection. As you recover, you’ll gradually reintroduce physical activities based on your recovery plan, with close monitoring of symptoms to ensure a smooth healing process.

Key Points:

• Rest and pain management following surgery.
• Regular check-ups to monitor healing progress.
• Proper care to prevent infection and promote healing.
• Introduction to physical activities as per recovery plan.
• Watching for any signs of complications or unusual symptoms.

Rehabilitation focuses on restoring shoulder function through physical therapy. This includes range of motion exercises, strength training, and pain management. The goal is to regain strength, flexibility, and stability in the shoulder. Functional activities are gradually reintroduced to help you return to daily tasks and activities with improved shoulder health.

Key Points:

• Tailored exercises to regain strength and mobility.
• Specific movements to improve shoulder flexibility.
• Exercises to rebuild shoulder strength and stability.
• Techniques and medications to manage post-rehabilitation discomfort.
• Gradual reintroduction to daily tasks and activities.

Preventing shoulder injuries involves regular exercise to strengthen the shoulder muscles, using proper techniques during physical activities, and avoiding overuse. Warm-up and stretching exercises help prepare the muscles for activity, while ergonomic adjustments ensure proper alignment and posture during daily tasks, reducing the risk of injury.

Key Points:

• Strengthening shoulder muscles to prevent injuries.
• Using correct techniques during physical activities and sports.
• Preventing repetitive strain on the shoulder joint.
• Preparing muscles before intense activities.
• Proper alignment and posture during daily tasks.