Blew out my knee

[RhndLev@cs.com]

Hey guys, I could use some information.  I fractured the cartilage in my knee 
and am told I have a "joint mouse" that needs to be removed.  Apparently, I 
broke a chunk of the cartilage off and it's moving around in there causing me 
severe pain.  I did this last Friday and was on crutches until yesterday (I 
tried to "walk off" the injury right after it happened and did more damage to 
the joint).  

Doctor tells me not to ride again until after I see the surgeon and get the 
chunk removed.  I rode right after the injury and it felt a heck of a lot 
better than walking (even with crutches).  My horse is gaited and incredibly 
smooth and stands calmly for me to do an off-side mount.  

So my questions are:  Is there really a good reason not to ride?  Why not?  I 
already need surgery so it's not like I can mess my knee up any worse, is 
there?  For those of you who have had arthoscopic surgery on your knees, what 
kind of recovery time am I looking at?  In terms of getting back on the 
horse, of course.  Doctor rattles on about recovering enough to walk.  Eh.  
Who cares.  When can I ride?  

This is making me crazy so any help would be appreciated.

Rhonda and Special