Interesting background, thanks. I think your walking, and probably other things, have strengthened your legs so the previous problems aren't as noticeable, or aren't noticeable at all. Well done!

I only say this because cartilage can't be regenerated. There are large "cushions" in the body - the menisci in the knees, the soft discs between vertebra, and then soft cartilage that covers the end of bones in our joints (articular cartilage).

When that cushioning tissue is damaged or lost due to a tear, or worn down by use or arthritis, it doesn't come back.

That said, joint replacement is the last resort. Strengthening the muscles around a joint, a strong core, cortisone and other lubricating injections can all push surgery off.

My knee surgeon said surgery is always up to the patient. The best guide is when a joint has devolved to a point where the pain from daily living is constant. That's how I made the decision to get my knees replaced. I had trouble sleeping, stairs were impossible - hell stepping up or down a curb was painful.