Higher Bebington, WirralGP-led · CQC registeredPatient FAQsJournalContact
Patient FAQs

Frequently askedquestions.

Browse by topic, or jump straight to the section that matches your question. Still unsure? Email info@skinjointclinic.co.uk.

20 questions across 4 topics

01

Booking & general enquiries

Do I need a GP referral?

No. You can book a private consultation directly. If your symptoms or skin lesion need NHS investigation, urgent care or specialist referral, we will advise you not to proceed privately.

Can consultation and treatment happen on the same day?

Sometimes. Same-day treatment may be possible when the diagnosis is clear, the procedure is suitable and informed consent has been completed. If more assessment is needed, treatment may be deferred.

How long does a joint injection appointment take?

Most injection appointments take around 15 to 30 minutes once suitability has been confirmed. More complex consultations may take longer, especially when treatment options need careful discussion.

Will insurance cover treatment?

Many patients self-fund. Private insurance cover varies, so please check directly with your provider before booking if you hope to claim back fees.

Are children treated at the clinic?

No. Minor surgery and injection services are for adults aged 18 and over.

Where is the clinic?

The clinic is based at Higher Bebington Health Centre, 25 Brackenwood Road, Higher Bebington, Wirral, CH63 2LR. We see patients from Wirral, Birkenhead, Liverpool, Chester and wider Merseyside.

02

Joint injections, how they work

What makes an injection ultrasound guided, and why does it matter?

Ultrasound guidance lets the clinician see what is happening beneath the skin in real time, rather than relying on surface landmarks alone. The painful joint, tendon sheath or bursa is visualised throughout the procedure, and the needle is watched into the correct space. This supports more accurate medication delivery, helps avoid surrounding nerves and blood vessels, and gives you genuine confidence that the injection is reaching the structure causing your symptoms. Published research consistently shows ultrasound-guided injections are placed more reliably than landmark-guided ones, which can translate into more predictable symptom relief in suitable patients.

Which injection is best for joint pain?

There is no single best injection for everyone. Steroid, hyaluronic acid, Arthrosamid, Durolane, Ostenil Plus and PRF have different roles. The right choice depends on diagnosis, joint, severity, medical history and treatment goals.

How do I choose between the joint injection pages?

Start with the joint injections hub if you are unsure. It compares steroid injections, hyaluronic acid injections, Arthrosamid, Ostenil Plus, Durolane and PRF in one place.

Will a joint injection definitely work?

No treatment can be guaranteed. Some patients improve, some improve partly and some do not respond. Your consultation covers likely benefits, risks and alternatives.

When might I feel improvement after a steroid injection?

Some people notice improvement within a few days, while others take one to two weeks. A short flare of pain can occur after injection. The duration of benefit varies between patients.

What are the risks of steroid injections?

Risks can include temporary pain flare, bruising, skin colour change, infection, raised blood sugar in diabetes and, with frequent repeat injections, possible tissue effects. Your individual risks are discussed before treatment.

Can I drive after an injection?

Many patients can travel home shortly after treatment. Advice depends on the joint treated, the medication used and how you feel afterwards. We recommend planning a quieter day after your injection.

Do you treat spine, neck or lower back pain?

No. We do not perform injections for the spine, neck, lower back or sacroiliac joint. If these areas are your main concern, please speak with your GP or an appropriate specialist service.

03

Types of injection we offer

What are hyaluronic acid injections?

Hyaluronic acid injections, including Ostenil Plus and Durolane, are non-steroid injections often considered for osteoarthritis-related joint pain and stiffness. Suitability depends on assessment.

What is Arthrosamid used for?

Arthrosamid is used for suitable knee osteoarthritis. It is not presented as a cure and is only considered after consultation, discussion of alternatives and review of contraindications.

What is PRF?

Platelet Rich Fibrin, or PRF, is prepared from a sample of your own blood and may be considered for selected tendon or joint problems. It is not suitable for everyone.

04

Minor skin surgery

Do you remove moles, cysts, lipomas and skin tags?

Yes, we assess and remove selected benign skin lesions in adults, including suitable moles, cysts, lipomas, skin tags and seborrhoeic keratoses. Lesions with concerning features are referred for NHS review.

Can you tell from a photo whether a mole is safe?

No. We do not diagnose moles or pigmented lesions from photos. A face-to-face assessment is needed, and any concerning lesion should be reviewed through your NHS GP or dermatology pathway.

Will minor skin surgery leave a scar?

Any procedure that breaks the skin can leave a permanent mark. We choose techniques carefully and give aftercare advice, but we cannot guarantee a scar-free result.

We couldn't find a question matching “”.

Try a single word, such as , , or .

Still stuck? We're happy to help: call 0151 203 7840 or email info@skinjointclinic.co.uk.

Contact us today

Still have a question?

If your question isn't answered here, we're happy to help. There's no obligation to book.

info@skinjointclinic.co.ukMon 09:00–19:30 · Tue–Fri 09:00–18:30
Still have a question?
Book →