Gluteal medius and minimus tears in my left hip (undiagnosed at the time) took me to the ER in severe pain about 10 wks ago. Morphine was administered after my 2nd same-day visit to ER and a heavy tapered dose of prednisone reduced inflammation from that episode. Subsequently, a hip MRI ordered by my orthopedic hip doc was done. Interpreting the MRI a few days later he expressed sympathy telling me surgery was not an option. He prescribed 'conservative PT', warning that PT is successful only about half the time. It's a bummer and I was told not to push through pain. I've had only 4 sessions but am now having unexplained pain and stiffness in my right knee. At 75 I have mild to moderate osteoarthritis contributing to pain and stiffness on a regular basis. I plan shortly to begin a 3 X daily course of Bromelain, a pineapple stem extract, at the suggestion of my arthritis doctor. Does anyone have experience with this OTC supplement?