Referrals
Knee pain referral checklist
Referral checklist for persistent knee pain, instability, or suspected structural injury.
Last reviewed 2026-02-07|knee pain | orthopedics | msk
Jump to
Minimum pre-referral workup
- Injury mechanism, instability features, and weight-bearing status.
- Baseline exam findings including effusion and range of motion.
- Initial conservative-care response and imaging rule application.
Urgency tier
- Same-day escalation for neurovascular compromise, septic-joint concern, or fracture instability.
- Expedited referral for persistent severe pain or mechanical instability.
- Routine referral for non-urgent chronic symptoms limiting function.
Referral packet checklist
- Symptom timeline and relevant exam findings.
- Investigations performed and treatment response.
- Functional limitations and occupational/sport demands.
Pre-referral optimization tasks
- Continue pain/function plan and mobility supports.
- Reinforce return precautions for swelling, fever, or instability.
- Set follow-up interval while awaiting specialist review.