Stiff Knee After Injury? Scar Tissue Might Require Arthroscopic Cleanup

It’s frustrating. You’ve recovered from a knee injury—or at least you thought you had—but your knee still feels tight, stuck, or won’t bend fully. Even simple tasks like climbing stairs, kneeling, or walking for long periods can feel uncomfortable or even painful. If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone—and there may be a reason behind your lingering stiffness that often goes overlooked: scar tissue buildup inside the knee joint.

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center (DRHC) in Dubai, we see many patients who experience persistent knee stiffness after an injury or surgery. In many cases, arthroscopic treatment offers a safe and effective way to restore movement and relieve discomfort. Let’s walk you through what’s happening inside your knee—and how we can help.

Why Does the Knee Become Stiff After an Injury?

When the knee is injured—whether from a sports injury, fall, or surgery—the body naturally tries to protect and heal the joint. Part of this healing response includes forming scar tissue, also known as fibrous adhesions.

While some scar tissue is normal, too much of it can restrict movement, reduce flexibility, and even cause pain when trying to bend or straighten the leg.

Common causes of knee stiffness after an injury include:

Ligament tears (ACL, MCL)
Meniscus injuries
Knee fractures
Previous surgeries (e.g., ACL reconstruction or meniscectomy)
Prolonged immobility during recovery

Understanding Arthrofibrosis (Excessive Scar Tissue)

The medical term for this condition is arthrofibrosis—a buildup of dense scar tissue inside the knee joint that limits motion. It can lead to:

Knee stiffness
Clicking or catching during movement
Pain with certain motions
Swelling and tightness
Difficulty fully straightening or bending the knee

If physical therapy and medications haven’t helped, it may be time to consider a minimally invasive solution: arthroscopic cleanup.

What Is Arthroscopic Cleanup?

Arthroscopic cleanup, also known as arthroscopic debridement or lysis of adhesions, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. A small camera and instruments are inserted into the knee through tiny incisions, allowing the surgeon to:

Identify and remove excess scar tissue
Smooth joint surfaces
Release tight structures that limit motion

This procedure not only improves movement but also reduces inflammation and pain, helping you get back to normal function faster.

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Common Questions About Arthroscopy for Knee Stiffness

“Is it painful?”
Most patients experience only mild discomfort after the procedure. Pain is usually well controlled with medications, and symptoms improve as the knee begins to move more freely.

“How long is the recovery?”
Recovery time varies based on how much scar tissue was removed and your baseline mobility. However, most patients start physical therapy within days and return to regular activities in 4–6 weeks.

“Will I be able to walk after surgery?”
Yes. You’ll typically walk the same day with support, and our team at DRHC Dubai will guide you through a personalized rehabilitation plan.

“Are there risks?”
As with any surgery, there are small risks of infection, swelling, or recurrence of scar tissue. However, arthroscopy is generally very safe, especially when performed by experienced orthopedic specialists.

You're Not Alone—And You Don’t Have to Live With a Stiff Knee

Living with limited knee movement after an injury can feel discouraging. We understand the frustration—and the fear that surgery might make things worse. At DRHC Dubai, we take a compassionate, step-by-step approach to ensure your comfort, safety, and recovery.

We begin with a full evaluation to determine the cause of your stiffness. If conservative treatments like physical therapy haven’t helped, arthroscopy may be the key to unlocking your knee’s full range of motion.

When to Seek Help

It’s time to see a specialist if:

Your knee remains stiff 6–8 weeks after injury or surgery
You can’t fully bend or straighten your knee
Swelling and tightness haven’t improved with therapy
Your quality of life is affected by reduced knee mobility

Early treatment can prevent further complications—and may restore your knee’s natural movement sooner than you think.

Treatment Available at DRHC Dubai

At Dr. Rami Hamed Center, our orthopedic team specializes in diagnosing and treating complex knee conditions, including post-injury stiffness and scar tissue formation. Using advanced arthroscopic techniques, we aim to deliver faster recovery, less pain, and better long-term outcomes.

Whether you’re an athlete eager to return to the game—or simply want to walk without pain again—we’re here to help.

Book your consultation today at DRHC Dubai.
Let’s take the first step toward freeing your knee—and restoring your quality of life.

Call +97142798200 us now to schedule your consultation today!
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