Non-surgical (conservative) treatment means care without an operation, such as rest, physiotherapy and braces, while surgical treatment means a procedure to repair a problem or replace a joint. The choice between them is made after an in-person examination and depends on the type and severity of the problem and on the patient's circumstances.
Note: This article is educational and general. The right treatment for you can only be decided after you are examined in person.
What is non-surgical treatment?
Many bone and joint problems improve without an operation. Non-surgical treatment aims to ease symptoms and improve how the joint works while avoiding the risks of surgery. Examples include:
- Rest and adjusting daily or sporting activity.
- Physiotherapy and exercises to strengthen the muscles around the joint.
- Braces or splints when needed.
- Medicines prescribed by the doctor, and injections in selected cases.
- Advice on changing habits that overload the joint.
It may be the main plan, or it may be tried first before surgery is considered. Knee osteoarthritis is one example.
What is surgical treatment?
Surgery aims to repair damaged structures, stabilize a joint or replace a worn part. Some procedures are done arthroscopically, meaning through small incisions, as with knee arthroscopy. Others involve open surgery or joint replacement, such as hip replacement. The type of operation is chosen by the surgeon according to the case.
How is the decision made?
There is no single best option for everyone. After the examination and any needed imaging, the doctor weighs several factors:
- The type and severity of the problem, such as a complete or partial tear, inflammation or a fracture.
- Whether the joint is unstable, locks, or keeps getting worse despite treatment.
- The patient's age, activity level, sport or work.
- General health and other medical conditions.
- How the patient has responded to non-surgical care, if it was tried.
- The patient's own wishes and expectations once the options are understood.
For instance, an ACL tear may be managed without surgery in some patients, and surgically in others who have instability or want to return to sports with sharp pivoting movements. This is only a general example, and each decision is individual.
Rehabilitation is part of both plans
Whether treatment is non-surgical or surgical, rehabilitation is essential. After surgery, structured rehabilitation is important to regain movement and strength. Recovery time varies from person to person and is set by the surgeon after assessment. See the rehabilitation guide for more.
Preparing for this conversation with your doctor
Ask what the options are, what each can offer and its limits and risks, what happens if you choose to wait, and what rehabilitation will involve. To prepare well, read how to prepare for an orthopedic visit.
