Can I sleep in a bed after shoulder surgery?
It is often painful to lie flat. Most patients sleep in a recliner or propped up with pillows for the first 3-6 weeks to reduce throbbing.
Treatment/Treatment Details
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Diagnose and treat shoulder problems with Shoulder Arthroscopy, a minimally invasive procedure using a tiny camera and specialized instruments. This advanced technique addresses rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, and impingement with less pain and faster recovery.
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Minimally Invasive Shoulder Treatment
Shoulder Arthroscopy uses an arthroscope (small camera) and specialized instruments through tiny incisions to treat problems inside and around the shoulder joint, such as torn rotator cuffs or labral tears. This minimally invasive shoulder surgery technique reduces tissue trauma, leading to less pain and faster recovery than open surgery. It addresses chronic shoulder pain, stiffness, or instability, improving overall shoulder joint health and function. This is a versatile procedure for various shoulder joint disorders.
Explore Shoulder Conditions & Treatments
View all shoulder conditions and treatment options →Who Needs Shoulder Arthroscopy?
- Patients with Rotator Cuff Tears requiring repair or debridement
- Individuals with Labral Tears (SLAP tears, Bankart lesions) causing instability
- Those with shoulder instability or Frozen Shoulder (adhesive capsulitis)
- Patients with biceps tendon injuries or synovitis
- Individuals with loose bodies or unexplained shoulder pain requiring diagnosis
What Conditions does Shoulder Arthroscopy Help Ease?
This procedure may help with:
The Shoulder Arthroscopy Procedure
- Following consultation and diagnostic imaging (MRI), this is typically an outpatient procedure
- Small portals are made, and sterile fluid expands the joint for visualization
- The arthroscope visualizes the shoulder joint, allowing precise diagnosis
- Specialized instruments perform repairs (such as Rotator Cuff Repair or labrum repair with anchors)
- Debridement, bone spur removal, or other treatments are performed as needed
- This is a precise method for treating shoulder joint pathology with minimal tissue disruption
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
- Provides effective diagnosis and treatment for a wide range of shoulder joint issues
- Significantly reduces shoulder pain and inflammation
- Restores joint mobility, range of motion, and overall function
- Is a minimally invasive approach, leading to smaller incisions and less scarring
- Often allows for a faster recovery time compared to open shoulder surgery
Recovery from Shoulder Arthroscopy
Recovery Timeline: 3-6+ Months for Complex Repairs
Recovery from Shoulder Arthroscopy varies by procedure. A sling is used for protection initially. Physical Therapy is often recommended, progressing from passive motion to strengthening. Full recovery can take 3-6+ months for complex repairs like rotator cuff or labral repairs. This shoulder surgery aims for functional restoration and return to overhead activities, focusing on shoulder joint rehabilitation and strength restoration.
Related Shoulder Treatments
Explore other shoulder treatment options:
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the sling needed?
For a simple decompression: 1-2 weeks. For a rotator cuff repair or labral repair: 4 to 6 weeks is standard to protect the stitches.
What is a subacromial decompression?
It is a shaving of bone spurs from the underside of the shoulder blade (acromion) to create more room for the rotator cuff, treating impingement syndrome.
When can I drive?
You cannot drive while in a sling. Typically, driving resumes at 4 to 6 weeks once you have adequate range of motion and are off narcotics.
Schedule a Consultation Today
Shoulder pain, rotator cuff injury, or limited mobility? Start your recovery with expert orthopedic care. Schedule a consultation with Mountain Spine & Orthopedics.
Locations Offering Evaluation
Our board-certified specialists offer shoulder arthroscopy evaluation and treatment at locations across Florida, New Jersey, New York, and Pennsylvania. Schedule a consultation at a clinic near you.
