Do you need a referral for hyaluronic acid injection?

A clinician first confirms which joint is causing your symptoms and whether an injection is suitable. They ask about pain, stiffness, swelling, previous treatments, medicines, allergies, and medical conditions. Examination and imaging may help distinguish arthritis from problems such as a tendon injury, infection, or a different source of pain. Hyaluronic acid injection is not appropriate for every joint problem, and the clinician should explain expected benefits, limitations, and alternatives before proceeding.

Contact the injection provider and ask whether you can book directly or need a referral from primary care or an orthopaedic clinician. Check whether your insurer requires a referral or prior approval. Bring imaging reports, your treatment history, and a current medicine list. Tell the clinician about blood-thinning medicine, diabetes, skin problems near the injection site, or any previous reaction to an injection.

Get urgent medical advice for a red, hot, rapidly swollen joint, fever, severe pain after an injection, breathing difficulty, or facial swelling. These symptoms can signal infection or an allergic reaction and need prompt attention rather than a routine injection appointment.

Ask what diagnosis the injection is intended to treat, whether imaging is needed, what alternatives exist, how the joint should be protected afterward, and which symptoms should prompt a call.