Hi Bill,

I don't believe that a good surgeon ever recommends surgery. My ortho surgeons have always given me explanations and options.

In my opinion, once a joint has no cartilage left and it affects a person's life, it's time for a joint replacement.

I think the statement that surgeons will always recommend surgery is mostly not true. It does happen though. 15 years ago I had sciatica. The surgeon did strongly recommend fusion and he was available within a week. His aggressive recommendation and immediate availability caused me to pull back and reconsider.

That was a lousy surgeon. Fortunately, their number is small. And 15 years later, the sciatica is gone and no vertebrae have been fused.

Your point stresses the importance of doing research and getting recommendations in surgeons. And when in doubt, step back and reconsider.

Thanks Bill.

Joe