I have degenerative arthritis in both knees (and Im only 23, it makes me sound older to say it). I used to figure skate when I was a kid and the impact from the jumps I did over time damaged the cartilage. I had to quit skating because of it. The sports medicine doctor said I basically have no knee caps now.

They recomended surgery, but couldn't really guarantee anything so I didn't get it. At some point I may have to. I just wear knee braces when I exercise and make sure I do plenty of stretches and I guess just deal with the pain the best I can. I do feel for you. It is extremely painful sometimes especially if I try to push myself to hard on a long run.

One thing I suggest is to keep your weight as low as you can (while still staying healthy of course). In college I put on some extra weight, and it made me hurt a lot more. It made the condition a lot worse. I keep my weight low now and it helps tremendously. I also have done some physical therapy which also helped.

Good luck.