After six arthroscopic procedures on my knee, I have no meniscus cartilage. There is a loss of movement and the pain makes my tennis and golf activities unbearable but I do not want to give up those activities. My doctor says I have advanced arthritis. At 64, what are my options?

Your diagnosis of advanced arthritis is probably the result of the loss of your shock-absorbing meniscal cartilage in your knee. Early stages of arthritic knee symptoms can be improved by losing any excess pounds and taking anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen products. However, prolonged use of these medications has side effects. Exercise that does not stress the knee joint with one's own body weight, such as swimming and bicycling, can assist in maintaining your knee range of motion and strength. If conservative treatment fails, knee-replacement surgery should be considered. Long-term studies have shown that knee-replacement surgery provides excellent relief of pain and restores function. Many individuals are able to return to activities such as golf and tennis. A decision toward knee-replacement surgery should be made after a thorough evaluation by your doctor and an explanation of the rehabilitation process as well as discussion on the expected outcome.