How do I get to see a specialist?

[Davidrob]

Hi all

This is my second post of woe

 - it's now been 3 and a half months since I injured my knee running. It wasn't a traumatic injury (like a sudden fall or twist) but something that came on gradually over some weeks. After 3 weeks I went to see a physio at my gym who diagnosed a grade 1 to 2 MCL sprain and advised me to rest/ice for another week or two and it should be ok. After a further couple of months things weren't really improving so I went to see my GP, assuming he would refer me to an OS. After a minute of leg pull/pushing he too said it sounded like an MCL sprain - "these ligaments can take ages" - and put me on diclofenac for 2 weeks. Did he think it would be worth getting a scan, I asked. "No - there is no sign of cartilage damage so I don't think a scan would show anything" he said. Instead he referred me to the local NHS physios.

And that's where I am now - it's maybe 4 weeks later and knee still not really getting any better. Heard nothing from physios. Still can't walk up steps and limping. Also getting pain at front of knee now, although I suppose that may be because my quad has wasted away on that leg. Not run a step in 3 and a half months, although am going on exercise bike (taking it fairly easy).

Can anyone offer advice? Should I be seeking an appt with OS / MRI etc or just wait? How can I get to see an OS other than going back to unhelpful GP and asking again?

Thanks   

[tanyap]

youve a couple of different choices.

go to same GP and tell him you want an OS appointment.

go to different GP and explain you need to see an OS.

go to your local emergency room and tell them you are in pain with your knee, they will have to examine you and may refer you to OS.

[Leentje]

youve a couple of different choices.

go to your local emergency room and tell them you are in pain with your knee, they will have to examine you and may refer you to OS.

I am very sorry, I agree with the first 2 options, not with the 3rd one!!!! PS 3.5 months post injury! It's an ER you're talking about?

Helena Sorry again

[tanyap]

hi helena,
dont be sorry for expressing yourself!!!

in Ireland you can land in an ER with pain no matter when the injury was and you will be seen and possibly referred - mind you, i deliberately put that as a final option
i wouldnt arrive there without saying the pain was suddenly much worse though!!

[Silkncardcrafts]

Hi there,

It's really frustrating when they won't refer you on. That's why I stopped seeing a GP for my joint problems and see a sports physician now.

I would ask for a referral to a sports medicine physician/doctor. Apparently they can be accessed on the NHS now. Alternatively I would go privately where you know you will get good advice.

Having lived in London for a couple of years I know how frustrating it can be dealing with some NHS GPs.

There is a great sports medicine clinic in London called Pure Sports Medicine. I was a patient there for a couple of years when I lived in London. If you see a sports doctor/specialist there they will be able to diagnose your condition properly and arrange any scans if they think it's necessary. At the time I was really struggling financially so reduced my consultation fees with my sports physician by half. They are more interested in helping people than charging a lot for their services. The number for Pure Sports Medicine is 0870 2000 878 and web address is www.puresportsmed.com If London is too far then they would probably be able to let you know of somewhere good in your area to go to.

Good luck !!