Pop in the Calf Muscle? What Happened and What to Do?
Read MoreJoint pain can make everyday life hard. Walking, working, or even sleeping becomes difficult when your hip, knee, or shoulder hurts. In the past, people often had to wait until the pain became unbearable before getting surgery. The surgery was big, and recovery took months. But today, there’s a better way: arthroscopy.
Arthroscopy is a modern medical technique that helps doctors see inside your joints using a tiny camera. They make a small cut in the skin and insert a tool about the size of a pen. Through this tool, they can fix joint problems without opening the entire joint. That means faster healing, less pain, and smaller scars.
In this blog, Dr Ankit Dave, one of the best orthopaedic surgeons in Nairobi, breaks down how arthroscopy works and how it helps with the hip, knee, and shoulder.
What Is Arthroscopy?
Arthroscopy is a type of keyhole surgery. Doctors use a special camera called an arthroscope. It lets them see inside the joint and guide tiny tools to repair damage. The surgery is done through a few small cuts, unlike traditional surgery that needs a large cut.
It is usually done under general or spinal anesthesia. The patient can go home the same day or after one night in the hospital. Many people return to normal activities within a few weeks.
Hip Arthroscopy
Hip pain can come from injuries, arthritis, or problems in the soft tissues. Sometimes, bone growths rub together, damaging the joint. This is called hip impingement. In the past, it was hard to treat without major surgery.
Now, the best doctors for arthroscopy surgery in Nairobi use hip arthroscopy to fix many of these issues. The surgeon can smooth out bone surfaces, repair torn cartilage, or remove loose fragments. It’s useful for young and middle-aged adults with pain that doesn’t go away with rest or physical therapy.
Many patients have asked if they can still avoid full hip replacement. The answer is yes, if the damage is caught early and treated with arthroscopy. It won’t reverse arthritis, but it can delay the need for a full hip replacement.
Knee Arthroscopy
Knee problems are common for people of all ages. You might tear a ligament, injure the meniscus, or develop swelling from wear and tear. Arthroscopy can help repair or remove the damaged tissue.
Dr Ankit Dave, one of the best orthopaedic surgeons in Nairobi, offers advanced knee arthroscopy to treat conditions such as:
● Torn ACL or meniscus
● Swollen or inflamed joint lining
● Cartilage damage
● Loose bone or cartilage fragments
● Stiffness or swelling that needs joint cleaning
This minimally invasive procedure is especially effective for people who stay active or work in jobs requiring long hours of standing or lifting. With a shorter recovery time compared to open surgery, most patients can return to work and exercise much faster.
Shoulder Arthroscopy
Shoulder problems often come from sports, heavy lifting, or falls. People may suffer from rotator cuff tears, frozen shoulders, or dislocations. These conditions can limit arm movement and cause constant pain.
Shoulder arthroscopy helps fix torn tendons, remove scar tissue, and stabilize the joint. Being one of the best doctors for arthroscopy surgery in Nairobi, Dr Ankit Dave say it is especially helpful for people who need strong shoulder movement for work or family tasks. Recovery usually includes physical therapy, but many patients are back to daily life within 4–6 weeks.
Common Questions Answered
1. Is an arthroscopy available near me?
Yes. Many hospitals and orthopedic centers now offer this service. Skilled surgeons are trained in this modern method. You don’t have to travel abroad for treatment.
2. Is arthroscopy expensive for joint treatment?
Costs can vary, but arthroscopy is often cheaper than open surgery because it has a shorter hospital stay and faster recovery. Some local insurance plans may help cover the cost. Ask your provider or hospital for a breakdown.
3. What if I need a hip replacement later?
Arthroscopy does not prevent you from getting a hip replacement later. In fact, it can delay the need for one. It’s often used to treat pain early and help you stay active longer.
4. How long will I be off work?
Recovery time depends on the joint and how serious the damage is. Many people return to light work in 2–4 weeks. For physical jobs, recovery might take longer, but still faster than traditional surgery.
The Bottom Line
If you’ve been living with joint pain and avoiding surgery, arthroscopy could be the answer. It’s safe, effective, and now more available than ever. Whether your hip, knee, or shoulder is holding you back, schedule an appointment with one of the best orthopaedic surgeons in Nairobi, Dr Ankit Dave, to check if arthroscopy is right for you.
Don’t wait for the pain to take over your life. Early treatment means better results and a faster return to the things you love.
