Following shoulder arthroscopy, there will be a significant amount of swelling in the shoulder. This swelling is due to the surgery itself and due to the arthroscopy fluid used to expand the joint. It is not uncommon for the swelling and bruising to travel down the arm into the forearm and hand and the chest and thorax. You should perform simple hand, wrist, and elbow exercises several times a day to help with the swelling. If you feel you have unusual swelling or bruising after your surgery, please contact Dr. Lo.