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@lamariniere: I'm in a similar boat with no cartilage, and not being able to run.

I'll spare you the long story but I've had 2 surgeries on my right knee, have little cartilage, and was told to wear a knee brace full time, and if I want to have another surgery they'll just give me a new knee cap.
I don't wear the knee brace and it's been 12 years since my surgery, I have had a few times where my knee cap would pop sideways, and result in my limping around for several weeks. I haven't gone back to the dr. because I don't believe they can do anything other than another surgery.
My left knee is actually the bad one now and will also pop sideways to where I can't run. I'm assuming similar issue with my cartilage. When I have issues I wear a knee brace.

I have also done lots of PT with my knee after each surgery, and that does help, so something to consider. I would also wear a brace when you run to support your knee cap. As far as seeing a dr., in my experience, there's not much they can do.

I'd see a doc first and get a referral to PT.
From what you describe it doesn't sound like an overuse injury (IT band problems are typically from muscle imbalances and poor mechanics and gradually build over time. Yours started with a specific onset of pain followed by irritation from running.). Typically a good plan of attack is a period of rest from your activity (4-6 weeks) during which time you could try PT. If after 4 to 6 weeks you see no improvement or can't return to running, you'd follow up with the doc and maybe do an MRI
A good PT should be able to diagnose pretty much what is going on. Oftentimes we don't need a doc to "diagnose" or we ignore their diagnosis and do our full evaluation and come to our own conclusion (which may or may not match the MD). The key here is finding a good PT. Perhaps one that works with runners in your area.

So what I'd do is as follows:
I'd try two things up front. Id call an ortho doc and see how long it would take to get an appt. if it's less than a week, go that route. Many are SO busy it can take weeks. If it's going to be a wait, go see your primary and get a referral for PT. But I'd also make an ortho appt for 4-6 weeks out just in case. That way you'd be ready to go if the PT doesn't work out and waiting for an appointment won't prolong the process.
Start PT and hope for the best! If it doesn't work, by the time you get to the ortho you can say "ok, I've done 4-6 weeks of PT and X has happened". A lot of insurers won't cover an MRI unless PT has been tried. Or if you get better you just continue with PT and cancel the ortho appt.

Depending on what state you're in you may not even need a doctor's prescription for PT.

@agold: Still me, times two. Both my knees still periodically bother me, but at least for now, nothing to be done. Running is off the table for me.

@agold: have you seen a PT? I know that for my specific injury, a stationary bike would not be a good idea. I reread my earlier comment on this thread and it still stands. I have, however, noticed vast improvement in my day to day movements, especially on stairs, thanks to my swimming routine. I swim instead of doing my PT exercises and it has helped tremendously.

@lamariniere: swimming sounds amazing! the stationary bike was actually recommended. also, a rowing machine!

@jennlin821: you are amazing. Thanks so much. I think you've convinced me to get a THIRD opinion. Or at least go see my regular doctor again. He also mentioned strengthening the muscles. So yes.. maybe a physical therapist could be helpful so I know what I am doing. And really... the realization of "bad knees" about put me into a depression.

@agold: don’t bother with your primary care unless you need a referral to a PT.
I don’t say this lightly - a few winters ago, I slipped on ice and fell hard on my shoulder, my hubby was a PT student at the time so he happily diagnosed me. I then went to my primary care who said “ if that’s what your husband diagnosed, then I agree with him, he knows more than I do” and I love my primary care Dr, she is amazing and thorough.

Wall me if you have any specific questions about PT and why I think it’s so important. ️