What is Arthroscopy
and How Does it Help?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive outpatient procedure that can be used in both the diagnosis and treatment of joint conditions. During an arthroscopy, a small incision is made near the damaged joint to allow a narrow tube with a fiber-optic camera to be inserted. This camera transmits a view of your joint to a monitor where the orthopedic or spine surgeon can more accurately assess and diagnose your pain. In many situations, a surgeon can then make repairs using thin surgical tools inserted through small incisions.

If you are suffering from joint pain and believe an arthroscopy may be right for you. Take the first step to finding relief with our free interactive pain assessment below. 

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Do I Need Arthroscopy?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure primarily used as a diagnostic tool when X-rays, ultrasound, MRI and other imaging studies do not provide enough information about the cause of pain, loss of range of motion, or other common joint issues. An arthroscopic procedure can also be used as a treatment to correct minor problems that do not require a more invasive surgery.

In some cases, a doctor will perform arthroscopy to look for foreign bodies that may have penetrated the joint, or to examine a certain disease that has affected the joint. arthroscopy can be performed on any joint but is most common in:

  • Knee
  • Hip
  • Shoulder


The experts at Integrated Spine Institute may recommend arthroscopy if imaging studies such as x-rays do not answer all of the questions about why you are experiencing pain or dysfunction of a joint. You may also be recommended for the arthroscopy procedure if you have a joint with a minor problem such as a:

  • Loose bone fragments
  • Osteoarthritis that is worsening
  • Damaged or torn cartilage
  • Inflamed joint linings
  • Torn ligaments
  • Scarring within joints


Individuals who need an arthroscopy are suffering from joint pain and are having difficulty finding the underlying cause.

If you are suffering from joint pain and need help getting the right diagnosis, arthroscopy may be the right treatment for you. Find out if arthroscopy is the right treatment for your joint pain below. 

Am I A Candidate for Arthroscopy?

As with most procedures and treatments, there are some factors that can qualify you for an arthroscopy. You may need to have an arthroscopy if you have: 

  • Persistent pain in your wrist, ankle, knee, hip, or shoulder.
  • Arthritis but your pain is worsening, potentially due to a loss of cartilage or an increase in inflammation.


The experts at Integrated Spine Institute may also recommend an arthroscopic procedure if you have experienced an injury but x-rays do not reveal a fracture. Athletes may have the procedure performed after a soft tissue injury so the extent of the injury can be assessed. The arthroscopy can reveal torn ligaments, damaged or torn cartilage, and infections of the joint lining.

After an arthroscopic procedure, it is recommended that you:

  • Rest in a recovery room for a few hours.
  • RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation) of the area.
  • Prescription or over-the-counter pain medication.
  • Get back to light activities one week after an arthroscopy.
  • Resume heavy activities four weeks after the procedure.

Candidates for arthroscopy have persistent joint pain and haven’t found answers to the cause of your pain through other diagnostic tests — find out if you’re a candidate for arthroscopy at the Integrated Spine Institute by using our assessment below.

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