Member Stories
Member question:
Is knee surgery needed?
Expert finding:
Surgery not needed now based on active lifestyle and case history.
Impact:
Member avoids painful surgery and is able to keep doing the things she loves.
“I was so relieved to find out there is a less aggressive treatment path for me. Best Doctors took the time to understand my lifestyle and love for being active.
”
– Brenda
Do I really need surgery?
Brenda is an active teacher who had right knee pain for months. She was diagnosed with arthritis in both knees. Medications and steroid injections were prescribed but with little improvement. Her physician recommended total knee replacement surgery for both knees.
She called Best Doctors.
Brenda shared her history with Best Doctors and her concerns about surgery – fearing a long, painful rehabilitation and a hindrance to her normal activities.
The Best Doctors Expert reviewed her full diagnostic workup including knee X-rays and MRI scans. Considering these test results and that Brenda was walking 3 miles several times a week, the Expert disagreed with the need for knee replacement surgery.
The Best Doctors Expert recommended medications for the pain and physical therapy to strengthen weakened leg muscles.
Brenda and her doctor decided to follow Best Doctors recommendations. Today Brenda continues her 3-mile walks, relieved by less aggressive options than surgery.