I went to my rheumatologist and he said i needed to be on a long term pain management plan. chondromalacia. i tried everything. what treatment works.

Would hesitate pills: Would hesitate long term pain pills. We need further information regarding your diagnosis, evaluation, imaging, lab etc. to guide you. You need a second opinion.

Surgical opinion: It may not be an option, but you might consider seeing an orthopedic surgeon to see if there is more a fix to your problem than undergoing long term pain management; which would certainly have its draw backs in a 23 year old.