Whether you're an athlete or just enjoy staying active, shoulder and knee injuries can quickly derail your routine. The good news is that minimally invasive orthopedic techniques like arthroscopic surgery are changing the recovery experience. In this post, we’ll explore how arthroscopy benefits those dealing with common shoulder and knee issues.
Understanding Arthroscopic Surgery
Arthroscopic surgery involves inserting a small camera through tiny incisions to diagnose and repair joint damage. Using specialized instruments, surgeons can access the joint’s interior without the need for large cuts which results in quicker recovery. For patients, this means less trauma to surrounding tissue, fewer complications, and a significantly faster return to normal activity compared to traditional open surgery.
The shoulder and knee are two of the most commonly treated joints with this technique, largely due to their complexity and the frequency of injuries, especially in active individuals and athletes.
How Arthroscopy Helps with Knee Injuries
In the knee, arthroscopic surgery is often used to treat problems like torn cartilage, ligament injuries, or joint instability. These issues can cause pain, swelling, or a locking sensation, making everyday movement difficult. Arthroscopy allows surgeons to address these concerns with precision, often removing or repairing damaged tissue in a single session. The small incisions mean that patients can begin physical therapy earlier and resume movement with more confidence, often experiencing less discomfort during the healing process.
Treating Shoulder Conditions Through Minimally Invasive Care
The shoulder, being one of the most mobile joints in the body, is especially prone to injury from overuse or trauma. Conditions such as rotator cuff tears, shoulder impingement, and instability can be effectively treated using arthroscopic techniques. By working within the joint space using a camera-guided approach, surgeons can correct the underlying problem while preserving healthy surrounding structures. This often leads to improved long-term outcomes and a more comfortable recovery period for patients.
A Smarter Approach to Joint Recovery
One of the biggest advantages of arthroscopic surgery lies in its ability to combine accuracy with efficiency. Recovery tends to be faster, the risk of infection is lower, and scarring is minimal. With a structured rehabilitation plan guided by an orthopedic specialist, many patients regain full function and return to the activities they enjoy.
Dr. DiGiulio offers specialized care for shoulder and knee injuries using modern arthroscopic techniques. A consultation can help you understand your condition and map out a recovery plan that fits your lifestyle.
AUTHOR: Milan M. DiGiulio, M.D. offers comprehensive Orthopaedic care for you and your entire family, specializing in Sports Medicine and Arthroscopic surgery of the shoulder and knee. Dr. DiGiulio performs over 200 arthroscopic shoulder and knee surgeries each year, using the most advanced surgical technology. Dr. DiGiulio is an advocate of non-invasive, non-surgical treatment options such as Physical Therapy and Orthobiologics.
