I had complex tear of meniscus. It was unstable & I opted for a partial meniscectomy. At that time surgeon also polished the bone where there was arthritis. I used to hike & take long walks before, even aerobics, but I can no longer do that. But I can walk most days without pain, though stairs are still a problem.
It took about 3 years to get to this point, and I gained about 30 lbs, which is not good for the knee! I am attempting to get that off to see if the pain abates and I can walk for longer periods without any problems.
In the beginning I regretted the surgery, as it was worse before it became better. Maybe it would have been the same without the surgery, but I’ll never know. Dr feels one day I will require a knee replacement.