Have you tried an Ossur unloading knee brace? I was scheduled for knee replacement and I got this to help me until I got into surgery. The man who fitted Me said he's had people avoid knee replacements with this brace, and I laughed at him. That was two years ago! I can wear it for a few days and then I can go without it for a while with very little pain. I'm 76 and I really don't want another knee replacement.