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Shoulder arthritis is one such condition that may become unbearable over time, impacting the overall quality of life. It can limit mobility and cause continuous pain. Traditional options for the treatment of shoulder arthritis mainly include invasive processes with long recovery time. But with the introduction of comprehensive arthroscopic management, the approach to managing shoulder arthritis has changed. This treatment option offers patients a less invasive and efficient solution for relieving pain.

What is shoulder arthritis?

In shoulder arthritis, the cartilage that acts like a cushion in the joints in the shoulder starts wearing down with time. This results in pain, thereby limiting motion and causing stiffness. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of shoulder arthritis that develops because of ageing, wear and tear of muscles and ligaments and earlier injuries.

Understand arthroscopy and how it helps in shoulder arthritis.

Arthroscopy is a surgical method that is done by making small-size incisions and by using specific instruments for assessing and treating joint issues. Arthroscopic management of shoulder arthritis has revolutionized the treatment approach as it offers numerous benefits as compared to traditional treatment approaches. 

Here are some of them:

Less invasive

In arthroscopic management of shoulder arthritis, small size incisions are done for assessing the injured joints. As a result tissue damage is less along with reduced pain post-operation compared to other methods that are highly invasive.  Patients recover quickly, and there is less scarring.

Proper visualization

Through arthroscopy, surgeons can see a clear and magnified view of the joint interiors, thereby helping in perfect treatment.

Wide-ranging treatment

Arthroscopic management can be used for treating varied stages of shoulder issues, right from shoulder debridement to some of the complicated processes such as joint replacement. Arthroscopic management provides a comprehensive method customized to each patient’s requirements.

Enhanced functioning of the joint

Arthroscopy management targets the primary cause of pain for treatment, thereby, helping in enhancing joint functions and quality of life quickly, compared to other traditional treatment methods.

Important processes involved in arthroscopic management of shoulder arthritis

Joint debridement

Joint debridement is done in early-stage shoulder debridement, wherein damaged tissues, debris, and bone spurs are removed. This helps in alleviating pain and enhancing joint functioning.

Joint resurfacing

When arthritis is in an advanced stage, but joint replacement is not required, joint resurfacing is done through arthroscopic methods. This mainly involves making the surfaces of the joint smooth and inserting a prosthetic cap on the joint’s humeral head. It facilitates smooth movement of the joint.

Micro-fracture

This is done for small cartilage damages, wherein small fractures are inflicted in the bone under the damaged cartilage. It stimulates the natural healing process of the body, resulting in the development of cartilage-like tissues.

Partial and complete joint replacement

In the case of partial shoulder joint replacement, only a small portion of the damaged joint is replaced with a prosthetic element. But in complete shoulder joint replacement, which is done in severe shoulder arthritis cases, the whole joint is replaced with a prosthetic element to restore joint functioning and alleviate pain.

Conclusion

Comprehensive arthroscopic management has arisen as one of the most transformative approaches for addressing shoulder arthritis. But it is important to remember that not every case of shoulder arthritis can be managed with comprehensive arthroscopic management. The orthopedic doctor should evaluate properly to determine the most suitable treatment method. 

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