How Shoulder Arthroscopy Works: A Simple Guide by Adam Vital Hospital

Shoulder pain can be frustrating—not just because it limits your ability to lift or move your arm, but because it can interfere with everyday life. From picking up a bag to putting on a shirt, a damaged shoulder can make even the smallest tasks feel like a challenge. When rest, physical therapy, and medications don’t bring enough relief, your doctor might recommend something called Shoulder arthroscopy.

Now, if the word “arthroscopy” sounds a bit intimidating, don’t worry. It’s actually a minimally invasive surgical procedure that has helped thousands of people regain mobility, reduce pain, and get back to doing what they love. At Adam Vital Hospital, we’ve seen firsthand how effective this approach can be—and how smoothly patients recover when it’s done right.

Let’s break it down in plain, simple terms.

What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?

Shoulder arthroscopy is a surgical procedure used to diagnose and treat problems inside the shoulder joint. Instead of making a large cut (like in traditional surgery), your orthopedic surgeon makes two or three very small incisions—each about the size of a buttonhole.

Through one of these incisions, a tiny camera called an arthroscope is inserted. This camera sends live images of the shoulder joint to a screen, allowing the surgeon to see what’s going on inside—whether it’s a torn tendon, inflamed tissue, damaged cartilage, or bone spurs. Through the other incisions, miniature instruments are inserted to carry out the actual repairs.

Because it’s so precise and less invasive than open surgery, arthroscopy usually leads to less pain, faster recovery, and fewer complications.

Why Might You Need Shoulder Arthroscopy?

There are several shoulder conditions that can be treated using arthroscopy. Some of the most common include:

Rotator cuff tears – when the tendons that help lift and rotate your arm become torn or damaged

Labral tears – injuries to the cartilage ring that stabilizes the shoulder joint

Shoulder impingement – when soft tissues get pinched between the bones during movement

Frozen shoulder – when the joint becomes stiff and painful due to thickened tissues

Shoulder instability – if your shoulder keeps dislocating or feels like it might

Bone spurs or inflamed tissue – which can cause pain, stiffness, or clicking in the joint

At Adam Vital Hospital, we carefully evaluate your symptoms and imaging reports before recommending arthroscopy. Not every shoulder problem needs surgery—but for the right conditions, arthroscopy can be a game-changer.

What Happens During the Procedure?

The entire procedure typically takes about 30 to 90 minutes, depending on the complexity of the problem. Here’s a general idea of what to expect:

Anesthesia – You’ll be given anesthesia so you don’t feel pain. This might be general (you’ll be asleep) or regional (numbing just the shoulder area).

Small incisions – The surgeon makes 2-3 tiny incisions around the shoulder.

Inserting the arthroscope – A small camera is inserted through one incision to view the inside of the joint.

Repairs – Surgical tools are inserted through the other incisions to trim, repair, or remove damaged tissues.

Closing the incisions – Once everything’s done, the instruments are removed, and the incisions are closed with small stitches or sterile tape.

Recovery room – You’ll be monitored for a short while before being discharged home.

Most patients go home the same day.

What Is Recovery Like?

One of the main benefits of shoulder arthroscopy is the relatively quick recovery compared to open surgery. That said, healing still takes time—and patience is key.

After the procedure, you’ll need to wear a sling to support your shoulder. The exact length of time depends on the type of repair done. For example, if a torn rotator cuff was repaired, you might need the sling for several weeks.

Here’s what the recovery journey often looks like:

First few days: You’ll likely feel some soreness and swelling. Pain medications and cold packs can help. Gentle hand and wrist movements are encouraged.

1–2 weeks: You’ll return to the hospital for a follow-up. Stitches (if any) are removed. You’ll start passive range-of-motion exercises with the help of a physiotherapist.

3–6 weeks: Gradual improvement in strength and flexibility. Physical therapy continues to play a major role.

6–12 weeks: Most patients see noticeable improvement in pain and movement. Many return to daily activities, though sports or heavy lifting may need more time.

At Adam Vital Hospital, our post-op care doesn’t end when you leave the operating room. Our physiotherapy team works closely with each patient to tailor a rehab program that ensures safe and steady recovery.

Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy

Less pain and scarring

Shorter hospital stay (often same-day discharge)

Faster return to daily activities

Lower risk of infection and complications

More accurate diagnosis using the arthroscope’s live visuals

Final Thoughts

Shoulder arthroscopy is a modern, effective approach to treating a wide range of shoulder problems—without the long recovery times and risks of open surgery. When performed by experienced hands and followed by proper rehabilitation, it can restore strength, movement, and confidence in your shoulder.

If you’re tired of living with shoulder pain or discomfort, let us help you find answers.

Reach out to the orthopedic team at Adam Vital Hospital to book a consultation. Your path to pain-free movement starts here.