I had a torn meniscus due to a work injury. I went to see a well known orthopedic surgeon at a high end sports/orthopedic center and he recommended surgery (of course).

The surgery was a nightmare, the pain was worse, I couldn't do any physical therapy due to the pain, swelling and restricted range of motion.

I had so much swelling that it had to be drained 3 times. I had numerous cortisone shots to no effect.

Another MRI and another surgery, 18 months of physical therapy, cortisone shots and I was still in pain with limited range of motion.

The only thing that helped me rehabilitate my knee after three years of getting nowhere was getting back on a bike, strengthening my quads and losing weight.

The kicker is that I've since found out that a torn meniscus doesn't require surgery in the majority of cases.

If I was you I'd get an MRI and lay off the impact exercises such as running.