I have knee pain, and it's only been partially explained to me.

[Zukobro]

I was in Japan last year, and suddenly I couldn't walk without help. I went to a doctor, and my girlfriend at the time translated for me since the doctor and I didn't speak one  another's language. At first, the doctor was fairly dismissive, saying I probably just drank too much the night before. After she took the x-rays, however, she became much more concerned. All I know is that I was "born without a part of my knees" at the joint. From what she was saying and showing me on the x-rays it was not the cartilage. She also said she had been concerned she might have to send me to emergency surgery, but apparently didn't have to. She gave me pain medication and instructed me to wear knee braces any time I walk longer than short and brief distances. My knees have slowly gotten worse as I get older. (I'm currently 28.) the doctor said kneeling is an absolute no-no, which is a bit embarrassing amongst the Japanese culture where kneeling is a fairly prominent part of life there. In October, I'm moving back to Japan, potentially permanently, and I would like to get a bit of a better understanding on what this could be, and if it can be treated on a more permanent basis. Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.