Persistent shoulder pain can make even simple movements, like reaching overhead or lifting a grocery bag, feel impossible. When discomfort lingers for weeks or months despite rest, medication, or therapy, it may be a sign of a more serious issue inside the joint.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD Orthopedics, Dr. Kevin McCarthy provides expert arthroscopic shoulder surgery in Hollywood, FL, using advanced Enovis technology to ensure precision and faster recovery. Known for his patient-centered approach, Dr. McCarthy focuses on accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and restoring mobility so you can return to the activities you love.
If your shoulder hasn’t improved with conservative care, here are five signs that arthroscopy may be the right next step for you.
1. Chronic Shoulder Pain That Won’t Go Away
If your shoulder pain has lasted for several months despite rest, medications, or physical therapy, you may have underlying damage that can’t heal on its own. Chronic issues such as rotator cuff tears, labral injuries, or advanced impingement can worsen over time without intervention.
Shoulder arthroscopy allows Dr. McCarthy to look inside the joint and directly address damaged tissues, bone spurs, or inflammation causing your symptoms. This approach offers both a shoulder pain diagnosis and treatment in a single procedure.
2. Conservative Treatments Have Failed
Most shoulder injuries start with non-surgical care—including anti-inflammatory medication, activity modification, injections, and supervised rehabilitation. But if these measures haven’t brought lasting relief, surgery may be the next step.
Arthroscopic procedures are often recommended after failed conservative treatment because they are minimally invasive, allow for shorter shoulder surgery recovery times, and address the root cause of pain rather than just the symptoms.
3. Limited Range of Motion That Interferes with Daily Life
When shoulder stiffness or weakness prevents you from reaching overhead, lifting objects, or performing simple tasks, it may be due to structural issues inside the joint. Conditions like adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), labral tears, or tendon damage can significantly restrict mobility.
Through minimally invasive shoulder surgery, Dr. McCarthy can restore movement by removing scar tissue, repairing torn structures, and smoothing rough bone surfaces—all while minimizing trauma to surrounding tissues.
4. Clicking, Catching, or Locking Sensations
If you notice your shoulder catching, clicking, or locking during movement, it could be a sign of loose bodies, cartilage damage, or labral injury inside the joint. These issues not only cause discomfort but can also accelerate joint wear.
With arthroscopic shoulder surgery, Dr. McCarthy can remove loose fragments, repair torn cartilage, and smooth joint surfaces, restoring a more natural and pain-free motion.
5. The Need for a Clear, Accurate Diagnosis
In some cases, imaging such as MRI or ultrasound may not provide a complete picture of what’s happening inside the shoulder. Arthroscopy offers a direct view of the joint, allowing Dr. McCarthy to confirm the diagnosis and treat the problem immediately.
This makes it a valuable tool for patients whose symptoms remain unexplained after standard diagnostic testing.
How Dr. McCarthy Can Help
Dr. Kevin McCarthy is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon in Hollywood, FL, with extensive experience in arthroscopic and minimally invasive shoulder surgery. He uses Enovis surgical technology for enhanced precision, smaller incisions, and better visualization of the joint.
At Kevin McCarthy, MD Orthopedics, your treatment begins with a comprehensive evaluation and detailed discussion of your options. If arthroscopy is recommended, Dr. McCarthy will create a personalized plan to help you achieve the best possible outcome with the shortest recovery time.
Your Path to Lasting Shoulder Relief Starts Here
Living with persistent shoulder pain can take a toll on every aspect of life. If conservative measures haven’t worked, shoulder arthroscopy may be the key to restoring your comfort, mobility, and confidence. Dr. Kevin McCarthy and his team are here to provide expert care from diagnosis to recovery, using advanced techniques to help you return to the activities you love.
Request an appointment online or call 954-963-3500 to learn if arthroscopic shoulder surgery is right for you.
FAQs About Shoulder Arthroscopy
HOW DO I KNOW IF I NEED SHOULDER ARTHROSCOPY?
If you have ongoing pain, limited mobility, or mechanical symptoms like clicking that haven’t improved with non-surgical care, a consultation with Dr. McCarthy can determine if arthroscopy is the right option.
WHAT IS THE AVERAGE SHOULDER SURGERY RECOVERY TIME?
Recovery varies by patient and procedure, but many people resume normal daily activities within 2–3 months. Full return to sports or heavy labor may take 4–6 months.
IS ARTHROSCOPIC SHOULDER SURGERY PAINFUL?
The procedure is performed under anesthesia, so you won’t feel pain during surgery. Some soreness is expected afterward, but this is typically less than with open surgery and managed with medication and therapy.
CAN ARTHROSCOPY BE USED FOR OTHER JOINTS?
Yes. Arthroscopy is a technique used for several joints, including the knee, wrist, and hip. While Dr. McCarthy focuses on shoulder procedures, the technology is also well-known for arthroscopic knee surgery.
