I second seeing a PT. I am currently being treated for patella femoral syndrome (knee pain from bad knee alignment - from some of the same issues - different manifestation). The last thing most PT's will do is bench you unless they really need to. I'm allowed to exercise - but am to avoid things that aggravate my knees. So - there's a lot I *can* do. Also - sometimes a short period of rest = less overall time for recovery. Something to think about!