Steve:
I feel your pain - literally! I have had 9 knee surgeries all on my right knee. I have had acl reconstruction, pfl reconstruction, open debridments, and more. I even used a walking cane for two years. My best advice I can offer is to keep moving and try strengthening all of the muscles that support your knee. Two years ago my right leg was so much smaller muscle-wise compared to my left leg. I had a standing order with my doctor for nearly 6 years of Vicodin because of my chronic pain. I would be in so much pain that I would be in tears after doing something physical outside. I was in physical therapy for all of those years too - I had enough!
I decided to try something different - my knee was shot, but not my muscles. If I could rebuild my muscles around the knee than I perhaps could live a better life. I decided to start strength training. Two years later - longer story short, I now am in so much less pain and I have my life back.
I share my story with a lot of people around here and would be willing to answer any questions you have. Each situation is different - but the principles are the same. Let me know if I can help.