Scapulothoracic Bursoscopy Treatment in India

Ayaan Nair, a 28-year-old software developer...

Ayaan Nair, a 28-year-old software developer and amateur weightlifter, had been struggling for over a year with a persistent, grinding pain deep in his upper back, right behind his shoulder blade. The discomfort, which he described as a 'bone-on-bone crunching,' was worst during overhead presses and pull-ups, forcing him to abandon his fitness passion. Multiple rounds of physical therapy, anti-inflammatories, and cortisone injections provided only fleeting relief. His orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Chen, diagnosed a chronic, inflamed scapulothoracic bursitis with significant crepitus, a snapping scapula syndrome. She recommended a scapulothoracic bursoscopy to debride the inflamed bursa and any scar tissue, explaining it as a minimally invasive 'clean-up' procedure. During the outpatient surgery, Ayaan was under general anesthesia. Dr. Chen made three small incisions, used an arthroscope to visualize the area, and carefully removed the problematic bursal tissue. The initial recovery involved two weeks in a sling with strict movement restrictions, followed by a gradual, guided physical therapy program to restore scapular control and strength. After four months of dedicated rehab, Ayaan's grinding pain was completely gone. He has slowly returned to modified weightlifting, focusing on perfect form. Emotionally, he transitioned from frustration and identity loss, feeling disconnected from his athletic self, to immense relief and cautious optimism. The procedure gave him a clear path forward, restoring his hope for a pain-free, active life.