Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
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ACE PHYSIO SPORTS
East gate Building, 46 East Coast Road
#08-03 Singapore 428766 -
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Sat: 08:00am - 4:00pm
Sunday (By prior appointment)
Arthroscopy
Elbow Arthroscopy
Elbow arthroscopy is a minimally invasive, keyhole surgical procedure used to examine and sometimes treat damage inside the elbow joint. Using an arthroscope, surgeons can both diagnose and treat a variety of conditions within the joint. Elbow arthroscopy can be used to address a number of different conditions, including:
- Osteoarthritis – to remove loose fragments or smooth rough joint surfaces.
- Rheumatoid arthritis – to reduce inflammation and prevent joint damage.
- Loose bodies – removal of bone or cartilage fragments causing pain or blockage.
- Joint impingement – to relieve pain and restore movement.
- Fracture repair – to assist in managing certain elbow fractures.
- Synovitis – removal of inflamed joint lining.
- Tendon or ligament injuries – repair or debridement of damaged tissues.
Elbow arthroscopy is an effective surgical procedure used to examine, diagnose, and treat problems within the elbow joint. Physiotherapy after the procedure is essential to ensure the surgery’s success, minimise the risk of complications, and support a safe and rapid return to full elbow function.
Elbow Arthroscopy Procedure
Arthroscopic surgery of the elbow is usually performed under general anaesthetic. The procedure uses an arthroscope — a small telescope connected to a television screen — which is inserted through a tiny incision (approximately 10mm) at the back of the elbow. This provides the surgeon with a clear view of the joint to assess the extent of any damage. Once the damage has been evaluated, additional small incisions may be made to allow specialist instruments to trim or repair damaged areas. During the procedure, a sterile solution is introduced into the joint to optimise visibility through the arthroscope. At the end of the surgery, the joint is washed out, the incisions are closed, and local anaesthetic is instilled to provide immediate post-operative pain relief.
Elbow arthroscopy plays a crucial role in treating a variety of conditions and is effective in addressing symptoms such as chronic pain, stiffness, inflammation, and reduced elbow function.
Physiotherapy prior to elbow arthroscopy
It is important to undergo physiotherapy prior to elbow arthroscopy to prepare your elbow for surgery and support a smooth, rapid recovery afterwards. At Ace Physio Sports, your pre-surgery physiotherapy programme will focus on controlling pain and swelling, strengthening the muscles around the elbow, and maintaining cardiovascular fitness and range of movement as much as possible.
Symptoms after elbow arthroscopy
Immediately after elbow arthroscopy, you may experience mild pain, swelling, and stiffness. Full range of movement will not be restored immediately, and your arm may feel weak. Initially, a compressive dressing will be applied, and you will be advised to begin using your elbow as tolerated. To reduce swelling, your elbow should be kept elevated when not in use during the first day. Maintaining range of motion is essential, and you may be placed on a CPM (continuous passive motion) machine on the same day. Physiotherapy will begin immediately after surgery to help restore full range of movement as quickly as possible.
Elbow arthroscopy is typically performed as a day-case procedure, meaning that if no complications arise, you can go home as soon as you feel ready. Most patients experience minimal pain and a rapid recovery. You may be provided with an arm sling for protection when out and about. You will not be able to drive immediately after the procedure, but you may return to driving within 2 to 5 days, provided your elbow is pain-free and there have been no complications.
Physiotherapy after arthroscopy
It is essential to begin a comprehensive physiotherapy programme immediately after elbow arthroscopy. A personalised programme at Ace Physio Sports ensures the success of the surgery, reduces the risk of complications, and accelerates the return of full elbow function. Since elbow arthroscopy is generally a straightforward procedure, recovery is usually rapid when the physiotherapy programme is followed diligently. After a successful surgery and rehabilitation course at Ace Physio Sports, you can expect to regain painless, full function in your elbow within 2–3 months.
Post-Op 1-7 days
During the first week after your surgery, your physiotherapy programme at Ace Physio Sports will primarily focus on controlling pain and swelling. It will also aim to reduce stiffness and help you regain some range of movement in your elbow. Your physiotherapy may include:
- Pain and swelling management using ice, compression, and gentle modalities.
- Gentle passive (assisted) range of motion exercises to maintain joint mobility.
- Active (independent) range of motion exercises as tolerated to regain movement.
- Use of a CPM (continuous passive motion) machine if prescribed.
- Elbow elevation when not in use to reduce swelling.
- Education and advice on safe movements and activity modification.
1-4 weeks
After the first week of physiotherapy following elbow arthroscopy, the focus of your programme at Ace Physio Sports will continue to be on controlling pain and swelling and improving the range of movement in your elbow. Goals will also include strengthening the muscles around the elbow and enhancing muscle control and function. Your physiotherapy may include:
- Continued pain and swelling management using ice, compression, or gentle modalities.
- Passive and active range of motion exercises to improve joint flexibility.
- Strengthening exercises for muscles around the elbow, including biceps, triceps, and forearm muscles.
- Muscle control and coordination exercises to restore functional movement.
- Functional training to support everyday tasks and gradual return to normal activities.
- Education and guidance on safe movements, posture, and activity modification.
5-8 weeks
After the first month of rehabilitation at Ace Physio Sports, your physiotherapy programme will focus on continuing and progressing the activities from previous weeks. The main goals at this stage are to further increase strength, range of movement, flexibility, and overall function in your affected arm. Additional goals will include enhancing cardiovascular fitness and muscle endurance in the muscles surrounding your elbow. Your physiotherapy may include:
- Progressive strengthening exercises for the elbow, forearm, and shoulder muscles.
- Advanced range of motion exercises to further improve flexibility and joint mobility.
- Endurance training for upper limb muscles to support sustained activity.
- Cardiovascular exercises appropriate for your fitness level to enhance overall stamina.
- Functional and task-specific exercises to improve performance in daily activities or work-related tasks.
- Education and guidance on maintaining progress, preventing injury, and safe return to higher-level activities.
9-12 weeks
In the third month of rehabilitation following elbow arthroscopy, your physiotherapy programme at Ace Physio Sports will focus on continuing the progress achieved in previous weeks, further enhancing strength, flexibility, and function of the elbow and upper limb. Your physiotherapy may include:
- Advanced strengthening exercises for the elbow, forearm, and shoulder to restore full function.
- Full range of motion exercises to maximise flexibility and joint mobility.
- Endurance and conditioning exercises for sustained upper limb activity.
- Functional and task-specific training to simulate daily activities, work, or sports movements.
- Posture and movement retraining to prevent strain and maintain long-term joint health.
- Guidance on safe return to higher-level activities and prevention of future injuries.
After three months of successful rehabilitation at Ace Physio Sports, you should have full, painless function in your elbow joint. Significant improvements in strength, range of movement, cardiovascular fitness, and muscle endurance should be evident. At this stage, the goals of your physiotherapy programme will continue to focus on maximising the success of your surgery and preventing future problems with your elbow joint.
The success and speed of your recovery after elbow arthroscopy largely depend on your commitment and adherence to the comprehensive physiotherapy programme at Ace Physio Sports, as well as the condition of your elbow prior to surgery.
Summary
Elbow arthroscopy is a procedure used to examine, diagnose, and treat a variety of conditions affecting the elbow joint, including osteoarthritis, injuries, and other types of joint damage. It is an effective way to relieve symptoms and improve elbow function. The procedure involves inserting a small instrument called an arthroscope into the elbow joint. Specialist instruments can be attached to the arthroscope to assess and treat any damage or conditions within the joint. A comprehensive physiotherapy programme at Ace Physio Sports is crucial after elbow arthroscopy to ensure the success of the surgery, restore full function, and prevent future problems. Physiotherapy will also help you regain full and rapid function in your elbow, enabling a safe return to everyday tasks, hobbies, work, and sports. For more information or to book an appointment, visit acephysiosports.com or call +65 81535374.
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