What does it mean to get scoped, and when can you begin to exercise?
Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that allows a surgeon to diagnose and treat joint disorders by using a small camera to look inside the joint. The arthroscope contains a small camera that provides a clear view of the interior of the joint while the surgeon inserts surgical instruments through other small incisions to repair damaged tissues.
Typically, arthroscopy is used for knee and shoulder joint injuries. Occasionally, it will be used in the ankle, hip or elbow. Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure and is often the best way to deal with many joint problems. Compared to open surgery, arthroscopy generally results in much shorter recovery time, less pain, and reduced expenses.
If you ever undergo an arthroscopic procedure, chances are it will be done on an outpatient basis, and you will be able to return home the same day. The anesthesia used for arthroscopy will depend upon the joint and the type of procedure used. It may be anything from general anesthesia (putting you to sleep) to a local anesthetic. You may even be able to watch the procedure on the television screen as it occurs, or get a videotape of the procedure. Arthroscopic incisions are so small that they usually require no more than one stitch, if any, and you may require little or no pain medication after arthroscopy.
You will most likely be given a rehabilitative exercise program to begin immediately after the procedure. Regular exercise to restore your knee mobility and strength is essential. Generally, this program can be done at home. Your orthopaedic surgeon may refer you to physical therapy to get started. You will likely exercise approximately 20 to 30 minutes two or three times a day. You also may be advised to engage in a walking program.
Some exercises commonly recommended after arthroscopy include the following:
- Initial Exercise
- Hamstring Contraction
- Quadriceps Contraction
- Straight Leg Raises
- Buttock Tucks
- Straight Leg Raises, Standing
- Intermediate Exercise
- Terminal Knee Extension, Supine
- Partial Squat, with Chair
- Quadricep Stretch – Standing
- Advanced Exercise
- Knee Bend, Partial, Single Leg
- Step-ups, Forward
- Step-ups, Lateral
- Terminal Knee Extension, Sitting
- Hamstring Stretch, Supine
- Hamstring Stretch, Supine at Wall
- Exercise Bike
- Walking
Your exercise program will likely be supervised by a therapist at the direction of your orthopaedic surgeon. As you increase the intensity of your exercise program, you may experience temporary plateaus. If your knee swells or hurts after a particular exercise activity, you should lessen or stop the activity until you feel better and inform your therapist or physician. You should use R.I.C.E. (Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation) if swelling occurs. Always contact your physician if the symptoms do not respond to this treatment.
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