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General FAQ's

What are your business hours?

Our offices are open 0900 to 1700., Monday through Friday (except holidays).
Appointments can be made by calling 1300 1 JOINTs (56468)  during office
hours.

What are your practice locations?

For all appointments and enquiries call 1300 1 JOINTs (56468)

Can x-rays be done in your Division?

An xray facility will be available in the same building in the very near future. The closest
xray facilities until then is in Liverpool.

Do I need a doctor's referral to make an appointment with one of the
specialists at your clinic?

As a Specialist clinic, patients need referral from their General Practitioner,
family physician or other doctor to make an appointment at our clinic.

What should I bring with me when I come for an appointment?

When you come for your appointment Remember to get the following:

• Medicare or the veteran affairs card.
• Referral letter from your GP, family physician or other doctor.
• Have your insurance information.
• Copies of operation records, medical records, x-rays, MRIs, CT scans
  and so on from prior doctor visits.
• If you have seen a physiotherapist, please bring a progress letter from
  the therapist.
• If you have had surgery elsewhere, please bring a copy of your
  operation report

What is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis.
It is caused by the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the tough elastic material that covers
and protects the ends of bones. Bits of cartilage may break off and cause pain and swelling
in the joint between bones. This pain and swelling is called inflammation. Over time the
cartilage may wear away entirely, and the bones will rub together. Osteoarthritis can affect
any joint but usually affects hips, knees, hands and spine.

Will physical therapy be required after surgery?

Major surgery on a joint may take two or three hours in the operating room. Getting a full
range of motion, strength and flexibility back in that joint after surgery usually takes months.
That's where pre-operative exercise and education and post-operative physiotherapy programs
come in - to ensure you're physically and emotionally prepared for surgery, and to maximise
your recovery after surgery. Together, such programs are among the most important
determinants in the success of your surgery