Arthroscopy in Sports Medicine
Minimally Invasive Solutions for Joint Injuries
Expertly reviewed by Dr. Nicholas Debellis, Orthopedic & Sports Medicine Specialist on Long Island
Athletes and active individuals often face joint pain and injuries that require specialized care. When conservative treatments like physical therapy or medication aren’t enough, arthroscopy offers a minimally invasive solution for diagnosing and treating joint issues—without the need for large incisions or prolonged downtime.
In this guide, we break down what arthroscopy is, how it supports recovery in sports medicine, and what patients can expect from this surgical technique.
What Is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a surgical technique that uses a small camera (arthroscope) and specialized instruments inserted through tiny incisions to view, diagnose, and treat problems inside a joint. Common joints treated include the:
Because the incisions are small, minimal scarring compared to open surgery.
Why Arthroscopy Matters in Sports Medicine
Athletes are particularly vulnerable to joint injuries due to repetitive movements, collisions, and high-impact actions. Arthroscopy is widely used in sports medicine to both diagnose and treat these issues with precision.
Benefits of arthroscopy for athletes include:
- Faster return to sport
- Outpatient procedures
- Shorter rehabilitation periods
- Reduced surgical risks
- Targeted repairs of ligaments, cartilage, and soft tissue
Whether you’re recovering from a torn meniscus, labral tear, or ligament injury, arthroscopy supports quicker healing so you can get back to your active lifestyle.
See how orthopedic surgeons use an arthroscope to treat joint injuries without open surgery.
Common Conditions Treated with Arthroscopy
Knee Arthroscopy:
- ACL reconstruction
- Meniscus tears
- Loose cartilage or bone fragments
Shoulder Arthroscopy:
- Rotator cuff repairs
- SLAP tears
- Shoulder instability and dislocations
Hip Arthroscopy:
- Labral tears
- Femoroacetabular impingement (FAI)
- Iliopsoas tendon release
What to Expect from Arthroscopic Surgery
Most arthroscopic procedures are performed under regional or general anesthesia and completed in under two hours. Patients usually return home the same day.
General Timeline:
- Week 1–2: Swelling reduction, limited mobility
- Week 2–6: Physical therapy begins, focus on restoring range of motion
- Week 6–12: Progressive strengthening and return to sport-specific activity (varies by injury)
Recovery varies based on the joint treated, the type of repair, and your individual health and activity level.
Professional headshot of Dr. Nicholas DeBellis, orthopedic surgeon at South Island Orthopedics
Is Arthroscopy Right for You?
If you have persistent joint pain, limited mobility, or a sports-related injury that hasn’t improved with conservative care, arthroscopy may be an effective treatment option.
A thorough evaluation—including imaging, physical exams, and a discussion of your goals—will help your orthopedic specialist determine if arthroscopy is right for you.
About South Island Orthopedics
South Island Orthopedics (SIO) physicians offer advanced arthroscopic procedures across key joints, helping athletes and active individuals recover from injury and return to their best. Utilizing state-of-the-art techniques in a compassionate, patient-first setting. Visit us in one of our locations in Rockville Center and Cedarhurst or request an appointment below!