Please note: Our Online Booking tool is currently down, please contact us on 0330 088 7800 to arrange your appointment and we will honour any online booking discount.

 

  • Book now

we work with

  • Individuals

  • Solicitors

  • Case
    Managers

  • Intermediaries

  • Organisations

  • Health
    Professionals

 

  • Our Clinics

 

  • Contact us

Close Icon

Arthroscopy of the Shoulder



Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive shoulder operation used to investigate, diagnose and treat a variety of shoulder problems ultimately to improve function. Arthroscopy is also known as key-hole surgery.During the procedure 2 or 3 small cuts are needed in order to pass through an optical camera (arthroscope) and any tools or equipment the surgeon needs. The arthroscope provides a clear and easy picture of the inside of your shoulder allowing the surgeon to see if everything is normal or if any structures are damaged. There are 2 types of shoulder arthroscopy performed. These are:
  • Diagnostic Arthroscopy – investigative procedure to find out if there is anything wrong with your shoulder
  • Therapeutic Shoulder – correction of any injury or defect within your shoulder.
These 2 procedures are often performed together.


Soft tissue massage of the trapezius muscle by MSK PhysiotherapistAbove: Soft tissue massage of the trapezius muscle by MSK Physiotherapist



Shoulder arthroscopy is performed on a variety of conditions and patients. They are routinely carried out on patients suffering from arthritic changes, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, and on traumatic injuries. Common procedures undertook through arthroscopy include: A Shoulder arthroscopy can be performed either with a general (you are put to sleep) or local (specific to shoulder) anaesthetic. Incisions are cut into the front and back of your shoulder providing openings for the arthroscope to be inserted as well as any tools necessary. Your shoulder is filled with fluid during the procedure to provide a clear picture of the joint and wash away any unwanted material. If there is any damage present, then fine tools are inserted, guided by the camera, and used to repair any imperfections. This procedure allows the surgeon to correct abnormalities without the need for an invasive open shoulder surgery. This decreases any risks associated with surgery and accelerates post-operative rehabilitation.


Shoulder assessment conducted by a therapistAbove: Shoulder assessment conducted by a therapist



Physiotherapy prior to Shoulder Arthroscopy



Before you undergo surgery Physio.co.uk will develop a rehabilitation programme to help with acute symptoms, improve muscular strength, restore normal biomechanics and provide a platform for post surgical rehab. These exercises will prepare your shoulder for surgery and improve your rehab time frame. Exercises will be aimed towards scapular stabilising and scapular strength. Treatment will include:
  • Cryotherapy
  • Pain management
  • Taping
  • Scapular stabilising exercises
  • Scapular strength exercises
  • Shoulder strengthening
  • Advice and post surgical management

Symptoms following Shoulder Arthroscopy



Following surgery it is normal for you to experience symptoms as a result of the anaesthesia and operation performed. You will normally be placed in a sling to help protect the shoulder. During this time you surgeon will instruct you on the amount of movement you are allowed and what you can and cannot do. The symptoms produced will be more excessive depending on how invasive and the specific procedure performed. Common symptoms include:
  • Pain
  • Swelling
  • Bruising
  • Numbness (usually self resolving after the anaesthesia wears off)
  • Stiffness

Physiotherapy following Shoulder Arthroscopy



Following your arthroscopy Physio.co.uk will compile a thorough assessment of your shoulder and develop a personal rehabilitation programme to suit you individual needs. This programme will focus on managing acute symptoms following surgery, decreasing pain, improving mobility, increasing strength and optimising functional use of your arm. Your programme will be specific to the procedure you undergo with your treatment programme reflective of your specific needs and personal requirements.Treatment may include:
  • Pain management
  • Scar management
  • Advice and education
  • Postural education
  • Active and passive range of movement exercises
  • Joint mobilisations
  • Shoulder strengthening exercises
  • Scapular stabilising exercises
  • Rotator cuff strengthening exercises
  • Stretches
  • Soft tissue release
  • Proprioceptive exercises
  • Functional activities
  • Sports specific exercises

Summary



Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgery performed to help examine, diagnose and treat traumatic or insidious shoulder problems. It can be performed by itself or in conjunction with a form of repair or reconstruction. Physiotherapy is an essential component of rehabilitation to help reduce pain and restore movement. Physio.co.uk will provide a comprehensive and specific treatment programme to ensure the full recovery of movement, strength and functional use of your arm. Call Physio.co.uk now on 0330 088 7800 for more information or to book an appointment please contact us.


Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Phone: 0330 088 7800
Call us on: 0330 088 7800
Mobile: 0330 088 7800
Email us on: office@physio.co.uk
Contact us by post: Our addresses
 
Get treated today!

We have immediate appointments available today. Contact us to make an appointment.

Find out more »

We are open...

Our clinics are open:
Mon - Fri: 8am - 8pm
Saturday: 9am - 5pm
Sunday: 9am - 4pm

 
Find your nearest clinic

Physio.co.uk have clinics located throughout the North West.

Find out more »

Physiolates - Pilates in Manchester Massage.physio.co.uk - View our services