I do agree, trying non invasive means first is the best thing to do. I, however, had gotten to the point where ANY walking was extremely painful and my ankles were constantly swollen to twice their size. I missed out on a lot of living. Age also makes a difference when ankle fusion is considered. I was 53 when I had mine done, which is pretty young for such a drastic move, but without that pain, I have been given a new life.