Arthroscopy In Sports Medicine: Minimally Invasive Solutions For Joint Injuries

What Is Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that uses a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions, allowing an orthopaedic surgeon to view, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. Because the incisions are small, there is minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery.

Arthroscopy has been used for over 100 years and continues to improve as cameras and surgical tools advance. Organizations like the Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) support research, surgeon training, and best practices—helping ensure safer, more precise, and more effective care.

Common joints treated include:

• Knee
• Shoulder
• Hip
• Ankle
• Elbow
• Wrist

Why Arthroscopy Matters in Sports Medicine

Athletes are especially vulnerable to joint injuries due to repetitive movements, collisions, and high-impact actions. Arthroscopy is widely used in sports medicine for diagnosing and treating these issues with precision.

Benefits may include:

• Faster potential return to sport
• Many outpatient procedures or minimal hospital stay
• Shorter rehabilitation periods compared with open surgery
• Reduced surgical risks due to smaller incisions
• Targeted repair of ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissue

Whether you’re recovering from a torn meniscus, a labral tear, or a ligament injury, arthroscopy can support quicker healing so you can return to an active lifestyle.

Common Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy

Knee Arthroscopy

• ACL reconstruction
• Meniscus tears
• Loose cartilage or bone fragments

Shoulder Arthroscopy

• Rotator cuff repairs
• SLAP tears
• Shoulder instability or dislocations

Hip Arthroscopy

• Labral tears
• Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
• Iliopsoas tendon release

What to Expect from Arthroscopic Surgery

Most arthroscopic procedures are performed using regional or general anesthesia and are often completed in under two hours. Many patients return home the same day.

General Recovery Timeline:

• Weeks 1–2: Swelling reduction and limited mobility
• Weeks 2–6: Begin physical therapy to restore range of motion
• Weeks 6–12+: Progressive strengthening and return to sport-specific activity

Is Arthroscopy Right for You?

If you have persistent joint pain, reduced mobility, or a sports-related injury that has not improved with conservative care, arthroscopy may be an option. A full evaluation will help determine if arthroscopy is appropriate for your needs.

About Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group

Somers Orthopaedic Surgery & Sports Medicine Group provides advanced orthopaedic care across New York and Connecticut.

• Carmel, NY – 664 Stoneleigh Avenue, Suite 300
• Newburgh, NY – 2 Victory Court
• Mt. Kisco, NY – 657 E. Main Street, Suite 3
• Fishkill, NY – 400 Westage Business Center Dr., Suite 106
• Danbury, CT – 40 Old Ridgebury Rd., Suite 101

Patients experiencing joint pain or sports-related injuries may call 845-278-8400 or request an appointment online.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How soon can I return to sports after arthroscopy?
A: Many patients resume sport-specific activities within 6–12 weeks, depending on the injury and procedure.

Q: Are there risks with arthroscopy?
A: Risks may include infection, stiffness, or incomplete symptom relief. Your surgeon will review these with you.

Q: Will I still need physical therapy?
A: Yes — physical therapy is essential for recovery.

Q: Can arthroscopy be done on older athletes?
A: Yes. Overall health, joint condition, and activity goals matter more than age alone.