echoes,

have you tried icing the knee and taking an anti-inflammatory pain reliever? can you tolerate N-SAIDS (e.g., aspirin, ibuprofen and the like)? the ice cannot be placed directly on your knee - it must be wrapped in a paper or cloth towel. it's best to elevate the knee and ankle too (provides more healing blood flow). the problem with the ankle might be caused by the extra stress being placed on it by the bad knee, in other other words, you're relying on your ankle more or moving it in an unnatural way to take pressure off the knee. ice the knee and ankle before and after work and keep them elevated as much as possible when at home. (at work, if you have the option of sitting, do so so that that the knee and ankle are rested.) i've had knee surgery and am somewhat familiar with knee issues. other things that can help are shoes that are shock absorbing, light and that fit properly. high-top sneakers / boots might provide support for your ankles. inner shoe orthodics - especially ones that support the arch of the foot - can help too. i wear them everyday and some of the otc ones are pretty good. make sure they provide more than cushioning though; they should provide arch support so that the foot does not pronate (lean inside). a pronating foot can lead to ankle and knee problems. stay off your feet as much as possible and rest the knee and ankle. basic advice is to follow R.I.C.E. (Rest Ice Compression and Elevation) Some people also have success with alternating between ice and heat. stretching your leg muscles might help too, just warm up a little beforehand so that the muscles are warm and stretchable.

hopefully, this will help with healing. if not, then you must see an MD. if the above helps, consider strengthing the knee when the pain subsides. ideally, this should be done with the help of a physical therapist. light weights are best for this.

btw, where does the knee hurt? does it hurt when you touch it? if so, that's the place it should be iced.

hope this helps.