Knee pain can sideline even the most active individuals, whether you’re an athlete, weekend warrior, or simply someone trying to stay mobile. When conservative treatments like physical therapy or medications aren’t enough, knee arthroscopy may offer a minimally invasive solution to diagnose and treat joint issues.
At Angelo Mattalino, MD in Phoenix and Scottsdale, AZ, we specialize in sports medicine and sports orthopedic procedures, including advanced techniques like knee arthroscopy. Here’s what patients should know about this procedure, including what it treats, how it works, and what recovery looks like.
What Is Knee Arthroscopy?
Knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive surgical procedure that allows your orthopedic surgeon to examine and treat problems inside your knee joint using a small camera called an arthroscope. Unlike traditional open surgery, arthroscopy requires only a few small incisions—typically less than a quarter inch each—which results in less tissue damage and a faster recovery.
What Conditions Can Knee Arthroscopy Treat?
Because of its precision and minimal trauma, arthroscopy is often the go-to option for diagnosing and treating a wide range of knee conditions in athletes and active adults.
It’s commonly used to confirm or treat:
- Meniscus tears (cartilage damage)
- ACL injuries (anterior cruciate ligament)
- Loose bone or cartilage fragments
- Patellar tracking problems
- Synovitis (inflammation of the joint lining)
- Cartilage wear or degeneration
- Baker’s cyst drainage or removal
For many patients, especially those involved in sports or physical labor, knee arthroscopy can relieve and restore function without needing large incisions or extended hospital stays.
What Can You Expect From Knee Arthroscopy?
During a knee arthroscopy, a small camera called an arthroscope is inserted into the joint through a tiny incision. This camera projects real-time images of the inside of your knee onto a monitor, allowing us to diagnose the issue and correct it using specialized instruments.
Because the incisions are small, the procedure is less invasive than traditional open surgery. That means less post-operative discomfort, a lower risk of complications, and a quicker return to your daily routine—whether you’re looking forward to walking pain-free, returning to the gym, or getting back on the field.
What Should You Expect After Knee Arthroscopy?
Because knee arthroscopy is a minimally invasive procedure, most patients can return home the same day. Compared to traditional open knee surgery, recovery is typically shorter, less painful, and easier to manage. However, healing still takes time, and following your post-operative instructions is key to achieving the best outcome, especially for athletes and active individuals.
What Is the Recovery Time for Knee Arthroscopy?
Most patients experience a gradual return to function over several weeks, with less pain and downtime than open knee surgery. Below is a general timeline of what you can expect during each phase of the recovery process.
Immediate Recovery (First 24–72 Hours)
Rest, elevation, and ice are essential to reduce swelling and manage discomfort in the first few days after your knee arthroscopy. Keep your leg elevated above heart level when lying down, and apply ice packs several times a day using a barrier to protect your skin.
Your knee will be wrapped in a compression bandage to support the joint and minimize inflammation—be sure to keep it clean and dry. Depending on the procedure, you may need crutches or a walker, though some patients can begin walking with assistance within a day.
First Week: Initial Healing Phase
You can expect mild to moderate pain, swelling, and stiffness during the first week. These symptoms are normal and usually improve with each passing day. Your orthopedic surgeon may prescribe medication to manage pain and inflammation, and you’ll receive guidance on gentle range-of-motion exercises.
- Wound Care: Keep the incision sites dry and follow cleaning instructions carefully to prevent infection.
- Activity Limitations: Unless cleared, avoid stairs, prolonged standing, or high-impact movements.
- Physical Therapy: Some patients begin light physical therapy in this phase to maintain mobility and prevent muscle atrophy.
Weeks 2–4: Resuming Light Activity
Most patients feel significantly better by the second or third week and can gradually return to light activities. You may be able to:
- Walk unassisted (depending on the procedure and individual progress)
- Return to work (if your job is sedentary or light-duty)
- Continue a structured physical therapy program to improve strength and flexibility
This period is focused on regaining balance, range of motion, and foundational joint control. You’ll still want to avoid high-impact exercise, heavy lifting, or sports during this time.
Week 4 and Beyond: Full Rehabilitation
Around the one-month mark, more active rehabilitation begins. If you’re an athlete or physically active, this is when your sports orthopedic team will gradually reintroduce sport-specific drills and training protocols.
- Increased Strength Training: Targeted exercises will help rebuild strength in the quadriceps, hamstrings, and supporting knee structures.
- Neuromuscular Re-education: Balance and coordination work are essential for preventing future injuries.
- Return to Sport: This is done under the guidance of your orthopedic surgeon and physical therapist, and only after a thorough evaluation confirms your readiness.
Full Recovery Timeline
Most patients recover from knee arthroscopy within four to six weeks for basic daily function, although full return to sport may take two to three months, depending on the type of repair and your recovery rate. We may create a longer, more gradual re-entry plan for elite or competitive athletes to ensure long-term joint health.
Schedule Your Consultation Today
Knee problems can hold you back, but relief is possible. At Angelo Mattalino, MD, we combine cutting-edge techniques like arthroscopy with personalized sports orthopedic care to get you back in motion. If you’re in the Phoenix or Scottsdale area and want to learn more about knee arthroscopy or explore other orthopedic options, contact us today to schedule a consultation.
