Acute knee clinic
A streamlined pathway for new knee injuries on the Sunshine Coast. Specialist assessment, MRI where indicated, and a clear plan for surgical or non-surgical management.
When the knee gives way, swells up overnight, or stops bending, early specialist assessment, with MRI where indicated, helps clarify the diagnosis quickly and protect long-term joint health.
When this clinic is right for you
- A new knee injury in the last few weeks
- You felt or heard a pop, the knee gave way, or it swelled significantly
- The knee has locked, caught, or buckled since the injury
- You cannot bear weight comfortably
- You have already had imaging that mentions ACL, meniscus, MCL, LCL, or PCL
- You want a clear early specialist opinion before deciding on surgery
Chronic knee pain (longstanding, no clear injury) is better served by a standard specialist consultation rather than the acute pathway.
How the pathway works
Initial specialist assessment
A focused history and examination, including ligament integrity testing, meniscal tests, and a baseline movement screen. Existing imaging is reviewed.
Imaging if needed
An MRI is requested where the clinical picture warrants it. As a specialist service, we can refer for bulk-billed MRI under Medicare for most relevant indications.
Diagnosis and plan
You leave with a clear diagnosis (or working diagnosis), a written care plan, and a clear answer on whether you need a surgical opinion.
Coordinated care
If surgery is appropriate, a referral to a chosen orthopaedic surgeon is made. If a non-surgical pathway is right, a structured rehabilitation plan with your physiotherapist is set up.
Imaging and diagnosis
The aim of imaging is to answer specific clinical questions, not to chase every possible incidental finding. MRI is used for soft tissue injuries (ACL, meniscus, ligaments), and is bulk-billed for relevant indications when requested by a specialist.
Where the diagnosis is clinical and management does not depend on imaging, scans may not be necessary. The discussion happens openly in the consultation.
Surgical and non-surgical decisions
Many acute knee injuries have more than one reasonable management pathway. The treatment decision should reflect your goals, not a default protocol.
Meniscal injuries similarly have a wider range of pathways than they used to. Acute repair, partial meniscectomy, and conservative management each have a role.
The role of the specialist sports doctor is to lay out the options, including the uncertainties, and to coordinate the next step you choose.
Common questions
How quickly can I be seen?
Acute knee assessments are prioritised. Reception works to schedule new acute knee patients within days where possible.
Do I need a referral?
A GP referral lets you access the Medicare specialist rebate. It is not strictly required to book, but it is strongly recommended.
What if I have already seen another specialist?
Second opinions are welcome. Bring your imaging, reports, and any letters from prior consultations.
Will I need surgery?
Some acute knee injuries do better with surgery, some do better without, and many have more than one reasonable pathway. The consultation lays out the evidence so you can make the decision that fits your life.
