In reply to The Reaper:
I limp all the time now and hip and knee is sore especially in the days after walking any distance.
Have been told by the physio that my leg and right buttock is 'withering'! So losing a bit of muscle due to favouring the right leg.
Saw a consultant 12 years ago and was offered re-surfacing but elected to delay as I was relatively young. I think it's reached the point where it needs to be done as just a couple of minutes on the tennis court with my daughter was agony (hip not the tennis!)
Have an appointment to see the same surgeon again shortly.
Having said that I have been bouldering quite a lot and find that by doing a circuit of problems that I know I can forget the pain and help maintain some movement. Bit like a yoga or stretching class.
Yes, how lucky to be born in the UK and have access to the NHS?
Thanks for all the info.
Voltarol has been used frequently over the years along with Tiger Balm and even Badger Rub!