Recovery process is usually fast in case of minor arthroscopic surgeries. The process does not require hospitalization, as the procedure only takes one to two hours of time. Most of the patients leave the hospital the same day. Physical exercises are to be carried out as a part of the routine to restore the full range of joint movements and to achieve best results. However, good rest of the operated joints are advised.
Some pain medications are prescribed by the doctors initially for few days, which help in pain management after surgery. There would be small incisions at the site of surgery, which would be dressed after the surgery.The wound dressing should be removed as per the guidelines of the doctor. The wound should be kept dry for the initial few days.The patients with arthroscopic surgery of the knee and ankle are advised to keep the leg in the elevated position for few days to prevent swelling. Lifting weight bearing articles or putting stress on the operated joints are prohibited for few days. Regular follow -ups with the doctor is required as suggested by the doctor. Patients are not allowed to get back to school or work for few weeks.
Recovery period following different arthroscopic surgeries
Knee joints
After the knee arthroscopy ,one can expect a relief from chronic pain of knee joints. Full recovery following the knee arthroscopy depends on the type of damage for which the surgery was performed. In some patients depending upon the damage, they might need to use crutches to facilitate walking. If the injury was severe, then the recovery would take a period of several months. The knees can experience a natural motion. One can carry out their routine activities like walking with much ease.
Hip joints
For the first two weeks after the surgery, the patient requires crutches . After this period the patient is usualy made to carry out some physical exercises to improve flexibility of the hip joint. Total regain of the activities might require six to eight months. Most of the athletes and other active people are benefited with hip arthroscopy as they can return to their active sports life.
Shoulder joints
The recovery period is usually estimated to be one to six months. For several weeks the patient requires a sling. With physical therapy and good care, total recovery is possible for most of the patients and they regain normal flexibility of the shoulder.
Ankle joints
The recovery period is usually estimated to be two weeks. Howeer the patient can start waliking with one to two days after the surgery. With physical therapy and good care, total recovery is possible for most of the patients and they regain normal flexibility of the ankle.
Elbow joints
Most patients return to their usually activity within two weeks with the help of physiotherapy. However activities involving lifting heavy things are prohibited until full recovery. Full recovery from loose body removal takes around 2-3 weeks and bone spur removal takes little longer period of 8-12 weeks.
