Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
Since June, I have been suffering from sciatica in my left leg. I was told in a private hospital that I should go for surgery. But I really don’t want to resort to this as I’d like to join the army some day. Could you recommend an alternative treatment that doesn’t involve surgery?
—Back in Black

Sciatica, for my readers that are perpetually in the dark, is caused by the inflammation or compression of the sciatic nerve, or one of the five nerves connected to it, resulting in shooting pains down the lower back and legs. Of course, if your doctor is recommending surgery, who am I to tell you not to? I’m not a Dr. Know-It-All, you know! That said, it couldn’t hurt to get a second opinion. Physiotherapy has been known to help such ailments, so get in touch with the experienced physios at Byrne and Hickman (Shop 106, Hutchison House, Central, 2521-3531). They can recommend exercises and help to determine whether surgery is really necessary for your condition.

Dear Mr. Know-It-All,
Since coming to Hong Kong three years ago, I’ve fallen in love with those Chinese birdcages in funky colors that you see in designer shops all over Hong Kong, and I’d like to buy some to decorate my apartment with. But in the homeware stores they’re really pricey. Are the old-fashioned ones any cheaper, and if so, where can I buy them?
—Bird-Brained

If you think that adopting a “Modern Chinoiserie” look counts as assimilating into Cantonese culture, you’re sorely mistaken my friend. If you want to go for truly authentic Hong Kong style, just wrap your TV remote in glad-wrap. But if that’s not your personal taste, The Yuen Po Street Bird Garden (Prince Edward MTR, 2302-1762) sells all kinds of cool accessories for our feathered friends, including live cricket, meal worms, and of course, the beautiful lacquered bamboo cage you so desire. They start at less than $100 for a cheap one, and go up to $500 or more for a large, ornate model. Then all you need to do is pick up some paint and go nuts.