A small device, no bigger than the width of a pencil, is used to perform arthroscopic surgery. According to the Cleveland Clinic, the procedure can be done on an outpatient basis with very few complications. Arthroscopic surgery of the elbow is usually performed to relieve bone spurs, tendonitis, osteoarthritis or defects in the cartilage. Doctors recommend moving your arm immediately following surgery to prevent stiffness. Perform rehabilitative exercises following your doctor's instructions.
Pendulum
Ice and a sling will help to keep the pain and swelling under control when you are not exercising for the first couple weeks. Perform the pendulum exercise to maintain mobility in your entire arm. According to Massachusetts General Hospital, you should lean against a table with your good arm and bend over at the waist so that your recovering arm hangs loosely towards the floor. Swing your arm in a circle five times, rest and then swing it five times in the opposite direction. Move your arm forward and backward five times. Continue with the circular and straight movements for about three minutes a couple times a day.
Stretching
As you begin to heal, you should incorporate stretching exercises in your daily routine to keep the tendons and muscles limber in your forearm and elbow. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, you can get a good stretch all the way up your arm with the wrist stretch. Hold your recovering arm away from your body, keeping your elbow straight and your palm facing the floor. With the opposite hand, reach and grab the hand on your injured arm and press down on the top of your hand. You should feel the stretch up to your elbow. Hold for a count of 10 and release.
Flexion
Once you are out of your sling, you need to concentrate on building muscle strength in your arm. According to Dougherty Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine, you should begin flexion exercises with a lightweight, one-half or one- pound weight. Sit on a chair or bench, holding the weight in your hand with your palm up and your arm at a 90-degree angle. Slowly curl your hand toward your body as far as you can without inflicting pain. Repeat 10 times, rest and then do two more repetitions of 10. Once you've reached a full flex, you can increase the weight incrementally until you are back to curling biceps with the amount of weight you lifted prior to your surgery.
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