I hate to be a pessimist, but I don't see my Dr. helping much at all. I do the "figuring out possibilities" and then basically ask permission to take particular actions. The Dr. seems to not really care and I even worry that she thinks I'm a bit whack-o.
As to the thigh pain, I'm wondering if a physical therapist might be more useful. But, again, it can be hit or miss.
Overall, I'm with you on the attitude that at least we are ahead of where we were years ago. And I definitely think that progress is being made!