Hi Jim,
I feel for you my friend. I am fortunate to have a very good primary care physician and she sent me to a very good orthopedic surgeon. My knee is much improved just from shots and exercise. The surgeon told me that given my arthritis I will eventually face some type of surgery but only as a last resort.

Please go to get a second opinion. Sounds like you have a good family doctor and that's a big bonus. Chin up, buddy, you will get through this. We are pulling for you. You are in our thoughts and prayers.