“Stopping Arthritis Before It Starts: How Arthroscopic Surgery Protects Your Shoulder and Knee”

By Dr. Om Patil – Spinewala | Your Back in Action

Cricketer with Shoulder pain after fall whilefielding on the ground is operated for supraspinatus tear with minimal invasive triple anchor technique

Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide, often developing silently over years of joint wear and tear. While age and genetics play a role, many cases are triggered or accelerated by untreated joint injuries. Modern arthroscopic surgery has emerged as a key player not only in treating joint damage but also in preventing arthritis from developing or progressing — especially in the shoulder and knee.

What is Arthroscopic Surgery?

Arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure where a surgeon uses a small camera (arthroscope) and miniature instruments inserted through tiny incisions to look inside and treat joint problems. This allows for precision repair with less tissue damage, minimal scarring, and quicker recovery.

How Arthroscopy Helps Prevent Arthritis

1. Early Repair of Damaged Tissues

• In the knee, cartilage tears (meniscus injuries) and ligament damage (like ACL tears) can destabilize the joint, increasing wear and tear. Arthroscopy can repair or trim torn tissue early, restoring stability.

• In the shoulder, labral or rotator cuff tears can cause abnormal movement, leading to cartilage erosion. Arthroscopy can restore smooth joint mechanics.

Why it matters: Stabilizing the joint early prevents uneven loading, which is a major cause of arthritis progression.

2. Removing Loose Bodies and Debris

After injuries, small fragments of cartilage or bone can float in the joint, causing inflammation and damaging healthy cartilage. Arthroscopy can flush these out, reducing chronic irritation and slowing arthritis development.

3. Smoothing Rough Surfaces

Damaged cartilage can create friction, like sandpaper in a hinge. Arthroscopic smoothing (chondroplasty) can create a more uniform surface, easing movement and protecting remaining cartilage.

4. Treating Inflammation Sources

In cases of early arthritis or chronic injury, inflamed joint lining (synovitis) can worsen degeneration. Arthroscopic synovectomy (removal of inflamed tissue) reduces pain and helps preserve cartilage.

5. Guiding Rehabilitation

Arthroscopy is often part of a comprehensive plan — combining surgical repair, physiotherapy, and lifestyle changes — to restore proper joint movement, build strength, and reduce long-term arthritis risk.

Shoulder & Knee – Why They Benefit Most

• Knee Joint: Supports body weight; even small misalignments after injury can cause rapid wear. Meniscus and ligament repairs are key to prevention.

• Shoulder Joint: Highly mobile but less stable; early repair of rotator cuff or labral tears keeps mechanics smooth and reduces cartilage stress.

Key Takeaway

Arthroscopic surgery is not just a treatment — it’s a preventive tool against arthritis when used early and appropriately. By repairing injuries before they cause irreversible cartilage loss, we can keep joints healthy for years to come.

If you have persistent joint pain after an injury, don’t wait. Early diagnosis and, if needed, arthroscopic intervention can mean the difference between a fully functional joint and a lifetime of arthritis management.

Dr Om Patil

Orthopedic Surgeon in Dadar

Chembur and Sion

Dr. Om Patil – Spinewala | Your Back In Action

Minimally invasive solutions for a pain-free life