It took me months to get an appointment with an orth. surgeon to get his advice on what to do about my knees. I was looking for relief from pain, possibly something to cushion my joints(Synvisc?). I am 51 years old, have had bad knees for the last 6 years, but this last year I have basicly lost the ability to walk more than 1/2 block. Needless to say, after having my xrays and talking to his assistant, the doctor came in and gave me all of 5 minutes of his time. He told me I need knee replacement, but I am too young. He told me to lose 13 pounds, exercise on a bike 20 minutes a day for two months, then come back. I tried to ask him about my options, and he basically blew me off. I did my best to get out of there without bursting in tears. I took his advice, joined a gym. My legs have only improved to the point where I don't have much swelling anymore, but I still cannot walk without extreme pain. I have lost the weight & gained a few pounds back, but I cannot bring myself to go back to this guy. It has now been 9 months. I am truely unable to make a decision on this but I know something has to be done because this is ruining my life.