Recognizing the Need for Shoulder Arthroscopy

Shoulder joint arthroscopy may be necessary if you’re experiencing persistent shoulder issues that haven’t improved with conservative treatment. Common symptoms indicating the need for this procedure include:

• Chronic Shoulder Pain: Ongoing pain that limits daily activities and doesn’t improve with medication or therapy.
• Limited Range of Motion: Difficulty lifting the arm, reaching overhead, or performing basic shoulder movements.
• Weakness in the Shoulder: Reduced strength, making it challenging to carry objects or move the shoulder naturally.
• Clicking or Locking Sensations: Sensations of the shoulder “catching” or “locking” during movement, often accompanied by pain.

If these symptoms persist, consulting with a shoulder arthroscopy surgeon at Eva Hospital can help determine the most effective treatment plan.

Common Reasons for Shoulder Arthroscopy

Several conditions and injuries can lead to shoulder joint damage, making shoulder arthroscopy a beneficial treatment option. Common causes include:

• Rotator Cuff Injuries: Repetitive overhead motions, such as those in sports, can damage the rotator cuff, leading to pain and weakness.
• Labral Tears: The labrum, a ring of cartilage in the shoulder, can tear due to injury, causing pain and instability.
• Frozen Shoulder: Also known as adhesive capsulitis, a frozen shoulder can result in severe stiffness and limited movement, often addressed by shoulder arthroscopy for frozen shoulder.
• Shoulder Impingement Syndrome: Overuse and repetitive motion can cause shoulder impingement, resulting in pain and restricted movement.

Our team of shoulder arthroscopy surgeons at Eva Hospital will evaluate your condition to recommend the best action to address these issues.

Potential Complications of Shoulder Arthroscopy

While shoulder arthroscopy operation is generally safe and effective, it does come with some potential risks. Common complications include:

• Infection: Though rare, infections can develop around the incisions or within the joint.
• Nerve Injury: There’s a small risk of nerve damage near the shoulder, which can result in numbness or weakness.
• Stiffness and Limited Mobility: Some patients may experience temporary stiffness post-surgery.
• Blood Clots: While uncommon, there is a slight risk of blood clots forming in the shoulder area.

At Eva Hospital, our team follows rigorous safety protocols and advanced surgical techniques to minimize these risks, ensuring optimal recovery for each patient.

Reducing the Risk of Shoulder Issues

Although certain shoulder injuries are unavoidable, proactive measures can help reduce the risk of shoulder conditions that may require arthroscopic shoulder procedures:

• Engage in Regular, Low-Impact Exercise: Exercises that strengthen the shoulder muscles without excessive strain can reduce the risk of injuries.
• Avoid Repetitive Strain: Minimize repetitive overhead movements if possible, especially if they cause discomfort.
• Stretch Regularly: Regular stretching helps maintain flexibility and reduce the risk of stiffness, especially in those prone to frozen shoulders.
• Practice Good Posture: Proper posture reduces strain on the shoulder and prevents issues related to poor alignment.