If your Dr. says you need a knee replacement, the quicker you get it done, the better. I have had knee replacement in both knees. Yes, it is painful, but only for a short time. The important thing to do is lose weight, if you are overweight. Hard to do, I know, but for me, I was able to 22 lbs in 3 months by doing the low carb diet and best of all, I haven't regained it. Another really big factor is following the exercises. It is painful and yes, I was screaming at times, but it is very, very important. I can't stress this enough. You DO NOT want your new knee to "freeze" up on you. Best of luck to anyone facing knee replacement.