The recommended duration of conservative treatment before considering surgery for most chronic conditions is 3 months. This period allows adequate time for non-surgical interventions, such as physical therapy, medications, and lifestyle modifications, to produce meaningful improvement. Early surgery is usually avoided unless there are urgent indications, as many patients improve without operative risks. Delaying surgery until after this trial helps ensure only those who truly require surgical intervention undergo it, optimizing outcomes and minimizing unnecessary procedures.

Reference: Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics, 14th Edition.