If you’re dealing with joint pain, injury, or limited mobility, one of the most important questions is: Do I need surgery, or can this be treated without it? The answer depends on your condition, your goals, and how your body responds to treatment.
In this video, Dr. Drew Ratner, board-certified orthopedic surgeon at American Orthopedics in Greenville, SC, explains the difference between non-operative (non-surgical) and operative (surgical) orthopedic care—and how the right treatment plan is determined for each patient.
You’ll learn:
When non-surgical treatments are the best first step
Common non-operative options, including physical therapy, activity modification, medications, and injection therapies like PRP
When surgery becomes the most effective solution
How factors like severity of injury, lifestyle, and activity level influence the decision
The importance of timing—when delaying surgery may help vs. when it may worsen outcomes
Dr. Ratner emphasizes that surgery is not always the first option. At American Orthopedics, every patient receives a thoughtful, individualized evaluation to determine the most appropriate path forward—focused on achieving the best possible outcome with the least invasive approach when possible.
Our practice is built around a personalized, concierge-style model, where you work directly with your surgeon at every stage—from diagnosis through recovery. This allows for better decision-making, clearer communication, and a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.
If you’re unsure whether surgery is right for you or want a second opinion, we’re here to help you explore your options:
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Learn more about our services and treatment approach:
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