If you are assessed as a non-surgical candidate, (you will not be having surgery at this time), your doctor will discuss your non-surgical options and how best to self manage your condition. You may need referral for pain management, physiotherapy, occupational therapy or other specialist services.
Non-surgical candidates fall into one of two categories:
Medically Unfit - A person may be classified as a non-surgical candidate because they are medically not able to have surgery for a variety of health related reasons (e.g. age, respiratory, immune system, etc.).
Medically Not Required - People who are in early stages of osteoarthritis often do not have sufficient cartilage damage in their joints that prevent them from being able to manage their everyday activities, so surgery is not required.