Subtitle: yayy for the US health care system! I recently recounted my issues with a torn meniscus in my right knee. I first saw my family doctor about this in late May. Two days ago, I saw the orthopedic specialist. After discussing with me the biology of cartilage, he said that doing surgery to remove my meniscus would only accelerate arthritis and that in 10 or 15 years, I would likely need knee replacement. Or, he could give me a cortisone shot to reduce the inflammation, which, he explained, was the primary source of my daily discomfort. Obviously, I took the shot. It's cheaper and not invasive. Depending on several factors, the shot may become a bi-monthly routine. The result: I can walk normal again without a limp. I'd say that my knee is now about 85% of what it was before the injuries to it. All within a month, and for relatively little expense. Estelle from Canada had written in with her similar story, except she has to rely on the Canadian health care system, which is nationalized. She has to wait until next year to see an orthopedist and have surgery. Here in the US, I was treated in less than a month. Obama sucks. His intentions suck, his spending sucks, stealing from our kids' future incomes sucks. He sucks. Estelle, if you read this, try to get a cortisone shot and see what that does for you. Your family doctor might be able to give it to you. That might at least alleviate your discomfort until you can have surgery. | 
