Tiger Woods is usually in a world of his own - on track to be the greatest golfer ever. But recently he showed a vulnerability similar to so many of us. Finally we can relate to him in some way.

Unfortunately, our common ground is a sore knee. Tiger finished the Masters in second place and then, before someone could say fore, he was scheduled for knee surgery.

Tiger underwent arthroscopic knee surgery (his second). We are told that all went well and he will be out of golf for approximately four to six weeks. Only his surgeon and he know the exact findings noted at the time of his arthroscopy, and the true prognosis.

I have performed the arthroscopy on many high-level athletes and golfers and I can say with certainty that if indeed he only had a small cartilage or meniscus tear, his recovery should be quick and full. Sometimes it is not that simple. Other issues that may prolong the recovery, change the prognosis, or make him prone to more knee problems in the future, would be the presence of some arthritis, or even focal areas of joint surface damage, otherwise known as chondral lesions or chondral defects - little pot holes or divots in the joint surface cushion.

Arthroscopy is one of the most common surgical procedures done in this country. It is almost a rite of passage for so many athletes and active individuals, especially the "beat-up" baby boomer population. Arthroscopy is done under anesthesia (general or regional) using tiny buttonhole incisions. A thin scope is placed in the knee for a peep show to accurately assess the damage. Many conditions can then be fixed "through the scope." The Arthroscopy Association of North America (AANA) has some really informative arthroscopy animations.

Recovery from arthroscopy is usually pretty rapid especially if you are fit, lean and motivated like Tiger. If you're overweight or have arthritis, expect a longer recovery. Also, even under the best of circumstances, recovery can sometimes be prolonged as in the case of Barry Bonds who suffered complications after a seemingly simple knee scope.

I'm sure Tiger is working hard on his rehabilitation and has his sights on the next big tournament. Thinking more long-term, especially in light of a prior arthroscopy on the same knee, my one recommendation for him would be to consider taking a high quality brand of Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate like that found in the brand CosaminDS.

These natural joint supplements are quite safe and not only can they reduce pain, stiffness and inflammation, but also they may protect the joint from further damage or progression of any arthritis, all of which will keep Tiger going for a long long time, breaking all the records.