First of all, spin to your heart's content as long as it doesn't make you feel worse. The key here is spin, nothing below 80 RPM. You may have to warm into that pace but once you're there, stay there. Absolutely no hills. Absolutely no running for now. IMHO.

You've had hip and IT band pain before right? Do you still have the foam roller exercises and stretches that I sent you? If you haven't been doing them, start back up and let me know if you need me to send them again.

As mentioned above, you may need orthotics.

You should be taking an anti-inflammatory if you're not already. If you have a regular one that you take and know is safe for you go ahead. If not, talk to a pharmacist about an over the counter option.

There is also something out there called a "patellar tendon strap". I like this one:

http://www.kneesupport.com/bodyglove/pat-matt.htm

and this:

http://www.kneesupport.com/protec/protec-sleeve.htm

The advantage of the first one is that it's a small brace and cool. The advantage of the second is that it keeps the area generally warmer while allowing direct pressure to the tendon that the wearer controls.

If you've had this before and it's not going to hurt your pocket book too much, I'd consider getting one of these braces. For where you live and the time of the year the second one may be best.

Let us know how the MD appointment goes.