INTRODUCTION
When you come to me with shoulder pain, stiffness, or trouble lifting your arm, I understand how frustrating it can feel. I’m Dr. Ragavanandam, and for over 15 years, I have helped patients across Tiruvottiyur and nearby areas regain mobility and live pain-free. Many people visit after months of discomfort or failed treatments, unsure whether surgery is needed. Shoulder arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure that helps me identify and treat the exact cause of your pain, allowing you to recover faster, with less pain, and regain strength in your shoulder.
Over the years, I’ve treated injuries from sports, accidents, age-related wear, and repetitive strain. I ensure every patient understands what is happening inside their shoulder, why treatment is needed, and how recovery will progress. My approach combines advanced technology, careful surgical techniques, and personal guidance so that you leave the clinic confident about your treatment and recovery. My goal is simple: to help you restore full shoulder function and return to your normal routine with comfort and confidence.
What Is Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Shoulder arthroscopy is a modern, minimally invasive procedure where I use a small camera, called an arthroscope, to look inside your shoulder joint. This allows me to see the ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and surrounding tissues with clarity, so I can identify exactly what is causing your pain or limited movement. Through tiny incisions, I can perform repairs, remove inflamed tissue, or smooth damaged cartilage without the need for open surgery, which means less trauma and a faster recovery for you.
I often explain to my patients that this procedure is both diagnostic and therapeutic. While it helps me see the internal structures clearly, it also allows me to immediately correct problems such as rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, or impingement. By using precise instruments and high-definition visualization, I can treat your shoulder in a way that preserves healthy tissue and reduces scarring. For patients who want reliable, long-term relief, shoulder arthroscopy is often the most effective solution.
Key Points
- Minimally invasive keyhole surgery
- Accurate internal diagnosis
- Effective for multiple shoulder conditions
- Less pain and swelling
- Faster recovery
When Do You Need Shoulder Arthroscopy?
Many patients come to me when they have tried rest, medication, or physiotherapy but still feel persistent pain or limited mobility. I often see people who cannot lift their arm, experience shoulder instability, or feel catching and locking during movement. When these symptoms interfere with daily life or work, or when imaging shows tears or inflammation inside the joint, shoulder arthroscopy becomes an important option to correct the problem before it worsens.
It’s also crucial for patients who have suffered trauma from sports injuries, falls, or accidents. Untreated structural damage can lead to chronic instability, pain, and reduced strength over time. I always explain to patients that timing is key: addressing the problem early with arthroscopy can prevent further damage and improve long-term shoulder function. The goal is to treat the issue effectively, reduce discomfort, and help you regain full use of your arm safely.
Key Indicators
- Persistent pain beyond a few weeks
- Recurrent dislocations or instability
- Weakness when lifting the arm
- Clicking, catching, or locking sensations
- Structural damage identified on imaging
How Shoulder Arthroscopy Is Performed
When I perform shoulder arthroscopy, I make two to three small incisions around the shoulder and insert a tiny camera that gives me a clear, magnified view of the joint. Using specialised micro-instruments, I can repair tears, remove inflamed tissue, or smooth damaged cartilage with great precision. The minimally invasive nature of this procedure ensures faster healing, less pain, and minimal scarring compared to traditional open surgery.
I explain every step to my patients before surgery so they feel comfortable and informed. Depending on the complexity, the procedure usually takes 45–90 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day or the next day. After surgery, I create a personalised rehabilitation plan, guiding you through exercises that restore flexibility, strength, and stability in a controlled, safe manner. My focus is always to help you regain normal shoulder function as quickly and safely as possible.
Key Steps
- Tiny incisions for minimal trauma
- High-definition camera for precise repair
- Advanced instruments for accurate treatment
- Faster recovery with minimal scarring
- Same-day or next-day discharge
Conditions I Treat With Shoulder Arthroscopy
I treat a wide variety of shoulder problems using arthroscopy. Rotator cuff tears, labral (SLAP) injuries, shoulder instability, impingement syndrome, cartilage damage, and frozen shoulder are some of the most common conditions. Patients often visit after months of discomfort, limited movement, or failed physiotherapy. Arthroscopy allows me to diagnose and treat these issues accurately, restoring normal shoulder mechanics and function.
For athletes, office workers, and older adults, the procedure helps relieve pain, improve strength, and prevent further damage. I emphasise a personalised approach, tailoring each procedure to the patient’s age, activity level, and lifestyle. My aim is always to return your shoulder to optimal function so you can resume daily activities, sports, or work tasks without fear of reinjury.
Conditions Treated
- Rotator cuff tears
- Shoulder instability and dislocations
- Labrum (SLAP) injuries
- Impingement syndrome
- Frozen shoulder release
Benefits of Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder arthroscopy provides many benefits compared to traditional open surgery. Patients experience less pain, smaller scars, quicker recovery, and minimal tissue damage. The precise visualization allows me to identify and treat issues that might otherwise be missed, giving patients a greater chance of long-term success.
Another major benefit is improved shoulder function. By treating tears, inflammation, or instability early, arthroscopy prevents further deterioration and chronic pain. I always ensure patients understand how this procedure will help restore mobility, improve strength, and reduce the risk of future injury. The goal is not just relief from pain, but restoring confidence in your shoulder for everyday activities and sports.
Key Benefits
- Minimal tissue trauma
- Less postoperative pain
- Faster return to daily activities
- Smaller scars and better appearance
- Long-term joint stability
Recovery & Rehabilitation
Recovery is a vital part of success after shoulder arthroscopy. I guide every patient through a personalised physiotherapy plan that starts with gentle movements, followed by gradual strengthening and mobility exercises. This phased approach ensures your shoulder heals safely and regains full function without overloading the repair too soon.
Most patients notice significant improvements within a few weeks, although complete recovery depends on the extent of the repair. I closely monitor each patient’s progress, adjust exercises as needed, and provide guidance for returning to work or sports. My goal is always a smooth, safe recovery that helps you get back to life without restrictions.
Recovery Highlights
- Guided physiotherapy for safe healing
- Gradual strength and mobility training
- Avoiding heavy lifting initially
- Regular follow-ups for progress tracking
- Tailored plans for work and sports
Why Choose Me – Dr. Ragavanandam
Patients choose me because I treat each case personally, explaining what’s wrong, why surgery is needed, and how recovery will progress. With over 15 years of experience, international fellowship training in arthroscopy and sports medicine, and advanced surgical skills, I provide safe, precise, and personalised care. My focus is on outcomes that restore shoulder function, relieve pain, and improve quality of life.
I ensure that every patient feels supported, informed, and confident about their treatment. I combine international techniques with evidence-based orthopaedic practice to achieve the best results. When patients leave my clinic, they have a clear understanding of their condition, a tailored treatment plan, and confidence in the recovery process.
Key Points
- 15+ years of orthopaedic expertise
- Fellowship in arthroscopy and sports medicine
- Advanced equipment for precision surgery
- Patient-first, compassionate care
- Proven track record of successful outcomes
Areas I Serve – Tiruvottiyur + Nearby 10 km Radius
I regularly treat patients from Tiruvottiyur, Manali, Madhavaram, Kodungaiyur, Tondiarpet, New Washermanpet, Wimco Nagar, Ennore, Perambur, and surrounding areas. My mission is to make high-quality shoulder arthroscopy accessible to everyone within this region. You don’t have to travel far to get expert care with international-standard techniques.
I also provide follow-up and rehabilitation guidance to ensure patients within this radius can complete their recovery successfully. Being nearby means patients can reach my clinic quickly if any questions or concerns arise, which improves outcomes and peace of mind.
My Patient-Centric Approach
Every patient is unique, so I take time to understand your symptoms, lifestyle, and goals. I explain the treatment plan, what to expect before and after surgery, and how rehabilitation works. My approach is personal, transparent, and focused on long-term results. You are not just a patient—you are a partner in your recovery, and your comfort and confidence are my priority.
Through this approach, I have helped countless patients regain shoulder function, return to work, resume sports, and enjoy daily activities without pain. My philosophy is simple: accurate diagnosis, clear guidance, precise treatment, and compassionate care.
Conclusion
Shoulder arthroscopy is a safe, effective, and modern way to diagnose and treat shoulder problems with minimal discomfort. With my experience, advanced techniques, and patient-focused care, I aim to help you regain full movement, strength, and confidence in your shoulder. Don’t let pain limit your life—early intervention ensures a smooth, successful recovery.
If you are struggling with shoulder pain or limited movement, schedule a consultation with me, Dr. Ragavanandam, today. Together, we will create a personalised plan to restore your shoulder health and get you back to your normal life.
Frequently Asked Questions
When you undergo shoulder arthroscopy, you will not feel pain during the procedure because it is performed under anaesthesia. After surgery, mild discomfort or soreness is normal, but it is usually well-managed with medications and reduces quickly as healing progresses.
Recovery depends on the type and extent of the repair, but most patients notice improvement within a few weeks. With proper physiotherapy and guidance, many return to daily activities in 4–6 weeks, while full recovery may take 3–4 months for major repairs.
Yes. Shoulder arthroscopy is one of the most effective and precise ways to repair rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, and other internal shoulder problems while preserving healthy tissue and allowing faster recovery.
Absolutely. Physiotherapy is an essential part of recovery. I design personalised rehabilitation programs for every patient to gradually restore mobility, strength, and shoulder stability, ensuring long-term success.
Yes, shoulder arthroscopy is safe for patients of all ages when proper assessment and planning are done. With careful surgical technique and tailored rehabilitation, older adults can regain shoulder function and reduce pain effectively.