Alternatives to arthroplasty

Osteoarthritis is a distressing condition. By definition it is not curable. All treatment modalities for arthritis are symptomatic. Arthritis cannot be cured. Most patients however prefer to seek non-surgical or medical options and injectables. Some may be willing to undergo realignment procedures. Given the expectations of patients it is my considered opinion that joint replacement surgery is probably the only effective treatment with good long term benefit and it is the most cost effective option. Nevertheless there are limitations of physical activity after a knee replacement and so patients may opt for alternatives to arthroplasty. This section hopes to put the various non-arthoplastic options in perspective so that the patient is able to select a procedure based on a good understanding of what it offers.