@dtevis that is great intel.
I have RA and min to mod osteoarthritic changes, sometimes accompanied by pseudo gout calcium crystals
in the joint (tho when they analyzed synovial fluid at time of first HA injection, none showed up then). I had one steroid injection which was Bloody marvelous - for three weeks. HA after 4 weeks post injections is better. Not great. Doc suggests it can continue to improve for another month or so.
I do all those compensatory things you describe to avoid pain. I did just also realize i was toeing out my right foot to lessen pressure on lateral knee - and it began to cause focal hip pain. So damn. I have started walking more slowly and being intentional about keeping my toes pointed north 🙂 and I have setup a place to do exercises PT gave me to do at home.

The pain has shifted to kneecap instead of lateral knee. And it occasionally locks and then pops. Makes me woozy for a few seconds. So this is better but not enough.

I see the doc again in late may and I will ask him about a partial meniscus removal. Thanks again.