Patients are typically encouraged to consider alternatives to arthroplasty before undergoing the procedure. Nonsurgical treatments (e.g., joint braces, physical therapy, medications) are available.  Usually everything else is tried before turning to arthroplasty.

Arthroscopy may be an option. In this minimally invasive surgery, the joint is examined with a slender device called an arthroscope and damage is repaired through small surgical incisions. Another option may be osteotomy, a method of surgical bone correction that shifts weight away from a damaged compartment of the joint.