Arthroscopic shoulder surgery allows for a quicker recovery because it requires smaller incisions than open surgery. This quick recovery may be appealing if you have sustained a shoulder injury or have shoulder arthritis, but how do you know if you are a candidate for shoulder arthroscopy and if it is right for you? We discuss the factors your doctor will evaluate in determining your candidacy, including type of injury, pain levels, and symptoms, below!
What are the benefits of arthroscopic shoulder surgery?
During arthroscopy, surgeons use a camera (arthroscope) and miniature surgical instruments to repair joint injuries. The smaller incision and precise surgical repair results in less bleeding, less pain, less risk of infection, and a shorter recovery.
When is shoulder arthroscopy recommended?
Your doctor may recommend shoulder arthroscopy if you need one of the following treatments:
- Rotator Cuff Repair
- Bankart Reconstruction
- Subacromial Decompression Shoulder Impingement
- Shoulder Arthritis Treatment
- SLAP Repair
Some shoulder injuries may be treated with physical therapy and activity modification, but if these methods do not relieve pain or improve your range of motion, then you may benefit from surgical repair.
What if my pain is severe, even after trying physical therapy?
Some patients’ pain levels are so severe that it hinders their daily lives and progress with conservative treatments. These patients may benefit from surgery so that they can begin recovery and return to an active lifestyle sooner, which would also benefit their overall health.
What if my symptoms have not gone away and I want to return to my active lifestyle?
Similarly, patients with prolonged symptoms (more than 6 months) or who desire highly active lifestyles may choose to have arthroscopic surgery so they can return to their activities sooner without worsening their injuries.
Is there anything that might affect my candidacy for arthroscopic surgery?
Younger patients with healthier tissue respond well to shoulder arthroscopy. Patients who smoke or have obesity, diabetes, arthritis, or previous shoulder surgeries may not be candidates for shoulder arthroscopy.
Where can I get treatment for a shoulder injury in Knoxville or Athens, TN?
With its board-certified surgeon and Orthopedic Urgent Care that is available without an appointment, ORTHOKnox has got you covered. We have orthopedic clinics in both Knoxville and Athens, TN. For more information about how ORTHOKnox can treat your shoulder injury using arthroscopy, call (865) 251-3030, or fill out our easy-to-use online appointment request form. We look forward to hearing from you!
