When something has hurt for months, the choice usually isn't between one treatment and nothing. It's between several imperfect options with different costs, timelines and levels of invasiveness.
The usual lineup
- —Rest and activity modification — free, slow, and often incomplete on its own.
- —Physical therapy — foundational for many issues, and worth doing properly.
- —Non-invasive procedures such as shockwave therapy — no incisions, no downtime.
- —Injections — targeted, with their own considerations.
- —Surgery — highest impact, highest recovery cost, usually last.
Questions that actually help you choose
- —How long am I willing to give a conservative option before escalating?
- —What does each option ask of me — visits, time off, restrictions?
- —What happens if I do nothing for three more months?
- —What would my provider choose in my position, and why?
Our bias, stated plainly
We are a non-operative, minimally invasive practice. That means we start with the least invasive reasonable option and escalate only when it's warranted — and it also means we'll tell you when your situation belongs with a surgeon rather than with us.
This article is general information, not medical advice, and it isn't a substitute for a consultation. If you're in crisis, call or text 988, or call 911.