Let's say you have osteoarthritis - perhaps the most common disorder of locomotors system.  It is often treated with a surgical operation to clean out debris in the joint, using a tiny scope inserted straight into the knee.  However more and more researches point out fact that the surgery works, but no better than other treatments.  Dr.  Kalousek is a rheumatologist from Spa-resorts. cz  says - surgery doesn't stop the arthritic process.

Interestingly American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) encourages patients to think about physical therapy as an alternative non-surgical option for osteoarthritis treatment.

Doctor Kalousek confidences that beside therapeutic spa treatments everyone can protect own joints from osteoarthritis or for sure slow its progression simply by following suggestions:

-Lose weight.  Just remember that every pound lost reduces the load exerted on the knee for each step by four kilogram. 

-Get active.  Exercise strengthens the muscles around joints, which can prevent cartilage from wearing down.

-Stay straight.  Good posture protects the neck, back, hip and knee joints.

-Don't stay immobile when sitting.  Changing positions can reduce joint and muscle stiffness.

-Lift cautiously.  Use your strongest & biggest joints and muscles when carrying & lifting to avoid straining smaller joints.

-Take a rest.  Rest between periods of heavy activity to prevent repetitive stress on joints that can accelerate wear and tear.

In other words therapeutic treatment is a good option of surgical operation in many cases!

Below suggestion from Doctor Kalousek  is really interesting one.

Quote from: Hovardeles on 2009-12-03 14:58

-Lose weight.  Just remember that every pound lost reduces the load exerted on the knee for each step by four kilogram. 

-Get active.  Exercise strengthens the muscles around joints, which can prevent cartilage from wearing down.

-Stay straight.  Good posture protects the neck, back, hip and knee joints.

-Don't stay immobile when sitting.  Changing positions can reduce joint and muscle stiffness.

-Lift cautiously.  Use your strongest & biggest joints and muscles when carrying & lifting to avoid straining smaller joints.

-Take a rest.  Rest between periods of heavy activity to prevent repetitive stress on joints that can accelerate wear and tear.

In other words therapeutic treatment is a good option of surgical operation in many cases!

I think the situation at hand will determine what exactly would be the solution.

Well, doctors in the house will be in better position to navigate around this.