MRI and Knee injury questions?

[Will1066]

I work in law enforcement. And injured my left knee twice in the last 9 months. I had arthroscopic surgery, and a chondral fracture to my medial femoral condyle was found. And was in the doctor`s words shaved, and cleaned up.  My knee still bothers me. And I have not returned to work since the 2nd incident last September.  So now I am treating with a Orthopedic doctor of my choice. Instead of the workers comp panel doctor who operated on me. My doctor ordered an MRI of the knee in January. Something the other doctor never did. It revealed the following concerns. Chondromalacia Patella, and mucoid degeneration of the posterior horn of my medial meniscus. I also have a small Baker`s cyst, with small joint effusion. He gave me a cortisone injection on my last visit. And prescribed 6 weeks of physical therapy for me. I still have the same problems. I would like to return to work. But my union has advised me not to do so unless fully healed. As my employer will only accept me back with permanent limitations. That is my dilemma!  I am a fit 48 year old male. I never had any knee problems before the injuries. Is there anything else surgically or otherwise to consider trying? Or am I destined, to grin and bear it, until I need a knee replacement down the road? I don`t know what to do? Especially with my work situation! I see my doctor again next week. Any advice is greatly accepted!

[Will1066]

Thank you for your kind assistance!

[abhijeet v ghosh]

hello will,
Chondromalacia patella, it's a condition for which we can do nothing much. But it is a self limiting condition. But can cause significant damage.
Also you are having problem with your meniscus.
I think a Synject / hyalase like injection should help you a lot. I will help you to buy out time for Joint replacement. I would not advice you joint replacement at 48 yrs unless you have severe knee pain and disability to walk, etc.

reagrds