I'll give my thoughts on the subject of replacements as I had my hip replaced at age 50, the pain before the replacement was intense bone on bone with all the joint fluid gone even driving a car was painful especially going over bumps which we have an abundance of in our fare city. This is year 8 since and it's the best thing that I could of done no pain no limitations walk easily stairs a breeze and can actually run, did I mention no pain. Rehab is the most important part of getting back to where you were before the pain started. I also happen to have a pool so I did all my rehab in a pool which my Dr. said would benefit me greatly. If you're in pain whether is knee, hip or shoulder get the surgery as soon as you can for your body and mind.