By Mr Philip Dobson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon at Newcastle Hospitals NHS and Nuffield Health.

Living with ongoing knee or hip pain can be frustrating. Many people try to “push through” for months — sometimes years — before seeking specialist advice. It’s very common to be unsure whether your symptoms are “bad enough” to see a consultant, or whether you should continue with physiotherapy, exercises, or pain relief instead.

In this guide, I explain when it’s appropriate to continue with conservative treatment, when it’s time to speak to a specialist, and what to expect at your appointment. My goal is always the same: to understand your lifestyle, your goals, and your symptoms — and to tailor a treatment plan that’s right for you.

When Conservative Treatment Is the Right First Step

Not every episode of knee or hip pain needs immediate specialist review. In many cases, early management can be simple and effective, especially in the first few weeks:

  • Physiotherapy
  • Strengthening and mobility exercises
  • Activity modification
  • Weight management
  • Simple pain relief or anti-inflammatories
  • Ice/heat and pacing activities

These approaches are an excellent starting point — particularly after a minor injury or a flare-up of longstanding aches and pains.

However, if your symptoms aren’t improving, or are gradually getting worse, it may be time to take the next step.

Signs It’s Time to See a Specialist

You should consider a referral to an orthopaedic surgeon if any of the following apply:

1. Pain that persists despite good physiotherapy

If you’ve completed a structured course of physiotherapy but still struggle with pain or stiffness, it’s worth further investigation.

2. Difficulty with everyday activities

Trouble climbing stairs, walking longer distances, getting in or out of the car, or putting on shoes can be a sign that your joint is no longer functioning as well as it should.

3. Pain that wakes you at night

Hip or knee pain that regularly disturbs sleep often suggests a deeper underlying problem worth assessing.

4. Instability or “giving way” of the knee

This is common after ligament injuries or degeneration in the joint. It may indicate structural issues that need specialist input.

5. Significant swelling or restricted movement

If your joint becomes persistently swollen, stiff, or “locks,” there may be mechanical issues such as cartilage damage or advanced arthritis.

6. A sports injury that hasn’t improved

Acute ACL injuries, meniscal tears, or hip impingement-like symptoms often benefit from early assessment — especially if you want to return to sport safely.

What Happens When You See Me in Clinic

Patients sometimes feel nervous before an appointment — but once they arrive, those anxieties usually settle quickly.

Here’s what you can expect:

A detailed conversation

I’ll ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, sports, work, and what matters most to you. This helps me understand your goals — whether that’s running again, keeping up with children, gardening, or simply walking comfortably.

A focused examination

This shows us how the joint moves, where the pain is coming from, and what structures may be involved.

Imaging where appropriate

Depending on your symptoms, we may arrange X-rays or MRI scans. These help confirm the diagnosis and guide your treatment.

A tailored plan

You’ll leave the consultation with a clear understanding of the problem — and a plan that fits your needs. Often, this involves non-surgical options first.

Non-Surgical Treatments We Offer

Surgery is rarely the first choice. Many patients respond very well to:

  • Targeted physiotherapy
  • Joint injections (for pain relief and inflammation management)
  • Activity or training adjustments
  • Bracing or taping (for specific knee issues)
  • Medication or short-term pain strategies
  • Guided return-to-sport programmes

My aim is to choose the least invasive treatment that gets you back to living the life you want.

When Surgery Becomes the Right Option

If symptoms continue despite good non-surgical treatment — or if imaging shows a problem that won’t respond well to conservative care — surgery may be appropriate.

This might include:

I’ll always talk through the risks, benefits, and expected recovery time with you, and we’ll make the decision together.

How to Access Specialist Care Quickly

If you feel it’s time to get your knee or hip assessed, you don’t need a GP referral to see me privately.

I run clinics at:

Nuffield Health Newcastle Hospital

(And I also work within Newcastle Hospitals NHS Trust.)

To book an appointment:

📞 07502 194902

📧 hrmedicalsecretary@gmail.com

Whether you’re recovering from an injury, struggling with day-to-day activities, or simply want clarity about your options, I’m here to help you take the next step with confidence.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to put up with persistent knee or hip pain. Early assessment can give you answers, reassurance, and a clear path forward — often without needing surgery.

If you’re unsure whether your symptoms need specialist input, you’re welcome to get in touch. A conversation can make all the difference.

 
Learn more about treatments offered

Mr Philip Dobson, Consultant Orthopaedic Surgeon offers consultations and treatment at Nuffield Health Newcastle

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