
Why You Should Choose an Orthopedic Surgeon Who Offers Both Non-Surgical and Surgical Options
Dr. Nancy Yen Shipley
Board-Certified Orthopaedic Surgeon
Founder, Form & Function Orthopaedics
If you’re living with joint pain, a sports injury, or arthritis, your first thought might be: Do I need surgery? But here’s the truth-the best orthopedic care doesn’t always start in the operating room. In fact, many patients see lasting results from non-surgical treatments when they’re guided by the right expert.
At Form & Function Orthopaedics, we believe you shouldn’t have to choose between conservative care and surgical skill. That’s why we offer comprehensive orthopedic treatment under one roof-whether you’re looking to avoid surgery or need the latest in minimally invasive orthopedic procedures.
What Makes Our Approach Different?
Most orthopedic surgeons specialize in surgery. Most physical therapists and non-surgical providers don’t perform surgery at all. But when you work with a surgeon trained in both non-surgical and surgical musculoskeletal care, you get the best of both worlds-and the best chance at avoiding unnecessary procedures.
At Form & Function, our treatment approach includes:
- Non-surgical orthopedic care, including physical therapy coordination, activity modifications, and biomechanical support
- Ultrasound-guided joint injections including PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma), orthobiologics, and cortisone when appropriate
- Cutting-edge surgical options, such as arthroscopy, cartilage repair, and tendon reconstruction when necessary
- Full-spectrum care for knee pain, shoulder pain, hip injuries, and arthritis in active adults
When you see us for orthopedic evaluation, we’ll begin with the least invasive route-because healing shouldn’t start with a scalpel if there’s another way.
Why Non-Surgical Treatment Should Be Part of the Plan
Non-surgical treatment is often highly effective, especially when combined with modern tools like:
- PRP therapy for knee arthritis and tendon injuries
- Custom bracing and support for joint stabilization
- Rehabilitation exercises for muscle balance and joint function
- Regenerative orthopedics using your own biology to support healing
If you’ve searched for joint pain treatment without surgery, you’re not alone-and we’re here to help you explore every option first. Our goal is simple: find the right solution for you, not just the fastest or most common.
But If You Do Need Surgery-You’re in Expert Hands
Sometimes surgery is the right answer, especially if conservative care hasn’t brought relief. At that point, you want someone who doesn’t just operate-you want a surgeon who’s highly trained in minimally invasive techniques, knows your entire history, and can guide your recovery personally.
Whether it’s a knee arthroscopy, rotator cuff repair, or hip labral debridement, we’ll only recommend surgery when it truly aligns with your goals and long-term function. And when we do, we bring the highest level of orthopedic precision to the table.
Search Less, Heal More: The Complete Orthopedic Solution
By combining non-surgical joint treatment with advanced orthopedic surgery, we reduce the guesswork and give you access to every tool in modern musculoskeletal medicine. You won’t need to bounce between providers or waste time repeating your story.
We’ll walk you through:
- Which treatments make the most sense for your lifestyle and goals
- What to expect from both non-surgical and surgical options
- How to recover stronger, safer, and faster
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Whether you’re recovering from a sports injury, struggling with arthritis, or managing chronic knee, hip, or shoulder pain, our team at Form & Function Orthopaedics is here to help you move forward-with clarity and confidence.
Schedule an orthopedic consultation today and discover a smarter path to healing-one that respects your time, your goals, and your body.
👉 Serving patients in Portland, Beaverton, Tigard, Lake Oswego, and beyond.





