4xbear,
The knee is 90%, maybe even a little better. But not being able to do any real hiking this fall put my aerobic condition behind where it normally would be. A stationery bicycle, rowing machine and moderate weights aren't the same as going up and down with a pack and rifle!
MD,
Check out your local grocery (refrigerated area)stores for "Cherry Concentrate". Its got a good following for joint type problems. You can do a internet search for it and read up on it. I think there is a little Varget in their too.