FAQs

We specialise in the diagnosis and non-surgical management of arthritis and orthopaedic conditions. Our services include ultrasound-guided injections such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), viscosupplementation (gel injections) and cortisone injections. We also provide diagnostic assessments, tailored treatment plans and collaborative care with a dedicated team of doctors, physiotherapists and surgeons.

No, you do not need a referral. You can book an appointment via our Contact page.

We focus on osteoarthritis and related joint conditions affecting the hips, knees and shoulders. We also can manage the treatment plan for soft-tissue injuries, tendon and ligament problems and joint pain related to overuse or degeneration.

PRP involves using a small sample of your own blood, which is processed to concentrate the platelets. This plasma is then injected into the affected area to help reduce pain and promote tissue healing.

Viscosupplementation involves injecting a gel-like substance (hyaluronic acid) into the joint to improve lubrication, reduce friction, and relieve pain in osteoarthritic joints, most commonly the knee.

Cortisone is an anti-inflammatory medication used to provide short-term pain relief and reduce inflammation in joints, tendons, or bursae.

Your clinician will assess your symptoms, medical history, and imaging results to determine the most appropriate treatment option for your condition.

Your first appointment is a comprehensive baseline assessment. It includes a detailed consultation regarding your symptoms, a complete review of your medical history and existing imaging, and an ultrasound-guided joint assessment if required. If osteoarthritis is diagnosed, our clinician will discuss your immediate management options. Our multidisciplinary team will then collaborate to build your personalised, non-surgical treatment plan, which will be presented to you at your follow-up appointment.

A copy of any relevant medical history including the most recent reports of your MRI, X-Ray or Ultrasound.

Generally, you should wear comfortable and loose clothing and avoid anti-inflammatory medications for a few days prior unless otherwise directed.

Most patients tolerate the injection well. A local anaesthetic is typically used, and the procedure is performed under ultrasound guidance for accuracy and comfort. Some mild soreness or aching may occur for 24–72 hours afterwards. Joint injections can be more uncomfortable than routine muscular injections, and brief pain may be felt during the procedure despite the use of local anaesthetic.

The injection procedure alone only takes 5-10 minutes, including preparation time.

Viscosupplementation is generally very well tolerated, and serious side effects are rare. As with any joint injection, there is a small risk of infection. You might notice some mild pain, redness, warmth, or swelling around the injection site for a few days – this is normal. Using an ice pack and taking simple pain relief can help relieve these symptoms.

Yes, you can drive immediately after the procedure.

You can return to your normal daily activities immediately after the procedure.

Refrain from strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 24–48 hours, or until post-injection symptoms resolve.

Panadol or Panadeine and regular icing for 48 hours are usually adequate. Anti-inflammatories may be used if necessary.

Joint injections can feel a little more uncomfortable than a regular injection, and you may experience some brief pain during the procedure. Most people tolerate it well, though mild soreness or aching can last for a day or two afterwards. Local anaesthetic is generally not used during a PRP injection as it can interfere with the effectiveness of the treatment and can be harmful to joint cartilage.

Usually between 45 – 60 minutes. This includes time to take the blood and allow the centrifuge to spin. The actual injection process only takes seconds.

PRP uses your own blood, and therefore, there is no risk of disease transmission or allergic reaction to foreign material. As with any joint injection, the risk of infection is very low.

A local anaesthetic is not used, as research shows it can be harmful to joint cartilage. Some discomfort or aching may occur for up to 24 hours following the procedure. This can usually be managed with simple pain relief such as Panadol and regular application of ice to the area.

Anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., Nurofen, Voltaren) should be avoided for seven days after treatment, as they can interfere with the body’s natural healing response triggered by the PRP injection.

You may return to work and light daily activities immediately after your injection, but it is recommended that you avoid strenuous exercise or heavy physical activity for one week.

Yes, you can drive immediately after the procedure.

You can return to your normal daily activities immediately after the procedure.

Refrain from strenuous activity or heavy lifting for 7 days.

Panadol or Panadeine and regular icing for 48 hours are usually adequate. Please avoid taking anti-inflammatories for a week after your injection, as they can slow down the healing process started by the PRP treatment.

Patient responses vary widely. Improvement may occur within days, take several weeks, or not occur at all. Cortisone may work within days, while PRP and viscosupplementation may take several weeks as healing progresses. Your clinician will review your progress and advise on expected timelines.

Relief duration varies by individual and treatment type. PRP and viscosupplementation effects often last several months and can be repeated as needed. When effective, pain relief generally lasts six to twelve months, after which repeat treatment is an option.

Some patients benefit from a single injection, while others may need a series of treatments for optimal results. Your treatment plan will be tailored to your condition and response.

Medicare rebates may apply to the consultation and ultrasound components. The injections themselves are self-funded. Please contact your private health insurance to determine if you are eligible for a rebate within your policy.

Yes, we accept Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA) and WorkCover referrals where appropriate.

Payment is required on the day. We accept EFTPOS, credit card and exact cash amounts. Receipts are always provided for rebate claiming.

We operate from convenient, specialist medical suites in Southport, with easy access and onsite parking. The location and contact details are available on our Contact page.

All procedures are performed by experienced clinicians with advanced training in musculoskeletal and orthopaedic medicine, with the ability to use ultrasound guidance if clinically indicated or requested.