Here are some topics, discussions and debates in the world of Sports Medicine.
Sports and Exercise Medicine professionals see a variety of injuries and disorders. What we learn from treating athletes also helps us to treat and improve the quality of life for many active individuals.
DRUJ injury: what is it and how do we treat it?
Sporting people often complain of pain in the outside (ulnar) of the wrist. There are many causes of ulnar wrist pain, but one of the more [...]
ECU tendonitis: A cause of ulnar wrist pain
The ECU tendon is essential in stabilising the outside or ulnar aspect of the wrist. The ECU tendon can be injured in active individuals or athletes, [...]
Knot of Henry pain: a rare cause of foot pain
Mid-foot pain is a common presentation in long-distance runners. One less common cause of mid-foot pain is Knot of Henry pain, an inflammation of foot tendons [...]
Supplements for tendonitis: are they worth it?
Tendonitis is a common disease affecting tendons, leading to pain with tendon activity. We know that tendons respond to exercise therapy. Sometimes, we add other treatments [...]
Cortisone injection and diabetes: what should you know
Cortisone injections are commonly used for many joint and tendon musculoskeletal conditions. People with diabetes are more prone to side effects from cortisone injections, so they [...]
PRP injection shoulder: is it an option for shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain is common among active individuals. Common causes of shoulder pain include rotator cuff tendinitis, frozen shoulder, and shoulder joint arthritis. Doctors have recently used [...]
PRP injection recovery time: what to expect after a PRP injection
We use PRP or platelet-rich plasma injections to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis. As PRP comes from your blood, we can optimise the [...]
What should I do after knee gel injections?
Hyaluronic acid injections are commonly used for knee arthritis. While different factors affect the effectiveness of these injections for knee arthritis, an essential element is post-injection [...]
Do you need to rest after a cortisone injection?
Cortisone shots offer people immediate pain relief for joint and tendon pathology. How we manage patients after a cortisone shot varies depending on various factors, such [...]
How long does a steroid shot last?
We use cortisone injections as pain-relieving treatments for arthritis and tendonitis. Cortisone directed to a joint or tendon reduces inflammation and improves pain and function. How [...]
Dorsal scapular nerve entrapment: a cause of shoulder blade pain
Upper to mid-back or shoulder blade pain is a common presentation to sports doctors or physiotherapists. Common causes include dorsal muscle strain, rib pain and cervical [...]
Ankle Arthrofibrosis or scar tissue in the ankle: what should you do?
Ankle arthrofibrosis or scar tissue in the ankle is common after injury, surgery, or prolonged immobilisation. Often, patients experience general ankle pain and stiffness. What is [...]
Barbotage procedure for calcific tendinitis shoulder
Calcification in the rotator cuff tendons is a common cause of pain in the shoulder. One of the treatment options for calcific rotator cuff tendinitis is [...]
Plantar plate tear: a cause of persistent toe pain
A torn plantar plate is a common cause of toe pain in the lesser toes (2nd-5th). A plate tear often causes pain and swelling at the [...]
Anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome: do you have it?
Abdominal wall pain is a frequent cause of unexplained tummy pain. The most common cause of abdominal wall pain is anterior cutaneous nerve entrapment syndrome or [...]
Tennis shoulder pain: how to find a cause
Shoulder pain from tennis is common, with some studies suggesting that up to 50% of tennis players develop shoulder pain. What are the possible causes of [...]
Cortisone shot for sprained ankle: when do you need it?
An ankle sprain or twist leads to torn ligaments and pain and swelling in the ankle. Generally, most ankle sprains settle with physiotherapy. However, an ankle [...]
Posterior ankle impingement: what to do
Posterior ankle impingement causes pain at the back of the ankle when pointing the foot downwards or in planterflexion. We can often confuse this condition with [...]
Pinched nerve in foot
Multiple nerves supply the front, sides and back of the foot. These nerves can be pinched by joints, muscles and tendons within the foot, causing pain, [...]
Femoral shaft stress fracture in runners: How to diagnose
A common injury in endurance runners and military recruits is bone stress. This bone injury occurs when overload to the bone from excessive activity, such as [...]
Sacral stress fracture in runners
Sacral stress fracture commonly causes low back or buttock pain in runners. Often, this condition is confused with sacroiliac joint or lumbar spine pain. How do [...]
Dead leg: How to treat
A dead leg, also known as quadriceps contusion or corked thigh, is a common injury in contact sports such as rugby, football and basketball. We also [...]
Duloxetine for osteoarthritis – musculoskeletal pain
Duloxetine is a prescription-only drug used to treat depression. However, we also use Duloxetine for chronic pain, including musculoskeletal pain such as osteoarthritis. What is the [...]
Soleus muscle strain: how to manage
A soleus muscle strain is a common but frequently unrecognised cause of calf pain in active individuals. Even though the soleus muscle covers a large area [...]
Sural nerve pain: how to treat
Sural nerve pain is debilitating pain in the lower outer calf and foot. Generally, we see sural nerve pain from trauma or entrapment of the sural [...]
Deep gluteal syndrome: a pain in the butt
Buttock pain is a common presentation in people who are active in running and sports. There are multiple causes of buttock pain, including referred pain from [...]
Sprain of deltoid ligament
Generally, when you sprain your ankle, you damage the ligaments on the outside of the ankle. However, in some cases, damage may occur on the inside [...]
Plantar fascia tear: How to manage
Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain. Inflammation of the fibrous band, called the plantar fascia, connecting the heel to the toes leads [...]
Transition from walking boot to shoe
We use walking boots to heal ankle and foot injuries like stress fractures. The walking boot allows your injury to heal. But equally important is the [...]
Knee injections for arthritis
Arthritis occurs when the cartilage of the joint wears away, exposing bone. This bone exposure leads to pain, swelling, and reduced function. Generally, simple treatments such [...]
Radial tunnel syndrome: an uncommon cause of forearm pain
Tennis elbow, also known as extensor tendonitis of the elbow, is a common overuse injury in active sportspeople. However, not all pain outside the elbow and [...]
Tendon Neuroplastic Training: more effective rehab for tendonitis
Tendonitis affects both upper and lower limb tendons. Examples include tennis elbow, golfer's elbow, patellar tendonitis, Achilles tendonitis and high hamstring tendonitis. Although exercise therapy has [...]
Diagram of elbow pain
There are many structures in and around the elbow, including joints, muscles, nerves and tendons. Damage, irritation, or compression of any of these structures can cause [...]
Shoulder pain map
Shoulder pain arises from damage to local structures in the shoulder, such as joints, tendons and ligaments or referred from the neck or the abdomen. A [...]
Hip pain location diagram
Hip, groin and buttock pain is a common presentation in active individuals. One way of narrowing the cause of your pain is identifying the hip pain [...]
Foot pain chart
Effective foot pain management involves getting the proper diagnosis and starting the correct treatment early. One of the simplest ways to obtain the correct pain diagnosis [...]
Scapula pain: What are the most common causes?
The shoulder blade, also called the scapula, is a triangular-shaped bone in your mid back. Causes of shoulder blade pain are variable but include common causes [...]
Knee tendon injury: how to manage
The knee is complex consisting of a hinge joint surrounded by tendons at the front, sides, and back. So is it any wonder we are prone [...]
Knee aspiration: When should you do it?
Fluid on the knee, also called a knee effusion or water on the knee, can be a painful condition with fluid build up in and around [...]
Gout in knee: How to diagnose
Gout is a common disease primarily seen in middle-aged men. Traditionally, gout presents as a painful and swollen big toe. However, gout can also affect other [...]
Pellegrini stieda lesion: What should you do?
Medial collateral ligament tears cause pain and swelling inside the knee. Generally, MCL injuries settle with a period of bracing and rehab. However, in some cases, [...]
PRP therapy: Most frequently asked questions
Platelet-rich plasma therapy, or PRP injection, is a relatively new treatment for common musculoskeletal diseases such as arthritis and tendonitis. However, there are so many practitioners [...]
Beware the insufficiency fracture of the knee
Generally, most people with knee arthritis or meniscal tears develop pain from a flare of arthritis. However, knee pain in people with arthritis is sometimes secondary [...]
Anterior tibialis tendonitis: a cause of mid-foot pain
The tibialis anterior tendon is a large tendon that starts at the front of the shin and moves across the front of the ankle and inside [...]
Ankle popping: What does it mean? We give you the answers
Ankle popping or clicking is exceedingly common. Often, these symptoms can occur while walking or standing up. Sometimes, popping can occur with other symptoms, such as [...]
Footballer’s ankle: how to treat
Footballer's ankle, also known as anterior ankle impingement, occurs because bony spurs forms at the front of the ankle joint. The spurs can form at the [...]
Hip osteonecrosis: what is it and what do we do about it?
Hip osteonecrosis, also called avascular necrosis or AVN, occurs when the blood supply is interrupted to the head of the femur (the ball of the ball [...]
Low hamstring tendonitis: a cause of pain at the back of the knee
Pain at the back of the knee can be secondary to several pathologies. One less common cause of posterior knee pain is low hamstring tendonitis at [...]
Hip pain from running: possible causes
Runners can suffer from hip pain. Hip pain from running can be due to muscles, tendons, joints, or bones. So, what are the common causes of [...]
Groin pain in men: possible causes
Groin pain occurs where the lower abdominal wall and the pelvis meet the leg. Although muscle strain is the most common acute cause of groin pain [...]
Arthrosamid injection for knee arthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis affecting the knee joint. We know that knee osteoarthritis is becoming more common in younger people. Treatment options [...]
Hook of hamate fracture: a golfer’s nightmare
The hamate bone is one of eight bones in the wrist that make up the carpal bones. Like any bone in the body, the carpal bones [...]
Discoid meniscus: what should you do?
Meniscal tears are a common cause of knee pain and swelling. The meniscus is c-shaped cartilage that sits between the knee bones and acts as a [...]
Why do I have shoulder pain at night?
Shoulder pain at night or when sleeping can be distressing. Those with night pain know how disruptive it can be. So what are the common causes [...]
Pain on outer side of knee
Pain on outer side of knee is also known as lateral knee pain. This knee area contains many structures that cross the joint such as tendons, [...]
Causes of inner knee pain
Inner knee pain, also called medial knee pain, is common in walkers, runners, and sportspeople. Symptoms can occur gradually or suddenly and may present with or [...]
Can you get a cortisone shot while pregnant? FAQs
Pregnancy leads to many body changes, such as weight gain, fluid retention, and hormonal imbalances. These changes can lead to everyday aches and pains in joints [...]
Durolane injection for arthritis
We use Durolane injection to treat a common cause of arthritis called osteoarthritis. This condition affects the hips, knees, shoulder, thumb, and other joints. Generally, the [...]
Is your shoulder clicking or popping and should you worry?
Shoulder clicking or popping is common but can be somewhat unsettling. The shoulder is complex consisting of multiple muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and bursa. So, the [...]
Knee clicking or popping: what does it mean?
Knee clicking or popping is common and may be due to one of several causes. But, first, you must determine whether clicking or popping is painful. [...]
Tarsal coalition: a cause of ankle pain
Tarsal coalition is an abnormal connection between two bones at the back of your foot toward the ankle. This connection causes irregular forces on the bone, [...]
Quadrilateral space syndrome: a cause of pain at back of shoulder
Pain at the back of the shoulder can be due to many causes, including rotator cuff tendonitis, shoulder arthritis, and referred pain from the neck. However, [...]
Os Peroneum syndrome: an uncommon cause of outer foot pain
Pain in the outer part of the mid-foot is common in runners and sportspeople. However, one rare but essential cause of lateral mid-foot pain is os [...]
Inflammatory arthritis: what to look for
An overactive or malfunctioning immune system drives inflammatory arthritis. There are many different types of inflammatory arthritis, including seropositive and seronegative inflammatory arthritis . So how [...]
Bone marrow oedema: is it serious and how should you manage it?
Bone marrow oedema is swelling or fluid build-up within the bone marrow. Often, oedema is detected by imaging such as MRI. So what is subchondral bone [...]
Can osteoarthritis be reversed?
Arthritis comes in various forms. But the most common type is osteoarthritis, which is a combination of wear and tear and inflammation. If you're unlucky enough [...]
Patellofemoral pain syndrome: what to do
Patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner's knee, is a condition causing pain in the front of the knee. We think that misalignment of the knee [...]
Gluteal tendon tear: how do you manage?
Pain on the outside of the hip is due to swelling of the tendons in the buttock. Often, this condition is called greater trochanteric pain syndrome. [...]
Tennis leg: how to treat
Tennis leg is a strain of one of the calf muscles called the medial head of gastrocnemius. A calf muscle tear occurs when the muscle is [...]
Stener lesion of the thumb: How to treat
Our thumbs are essential to providing the pincer movement that allows precision of hand movement. The collateral ligaments stabilise the thumb metacarpal joint. The ulnar collateral [...]
Accessory navicular syndrome (Os Navicularis) : inside ankle pain
Pain inside the ankle may be due to tibialis posterior tendonitis, mid-foot arthritis, or navicular stress fracture. However, one less common cause of pain is accessory [...]
Ischiofemoral impingement: an important cause of buttock pain
Buttock pain is complex. There are many causes of buttock pain, such as sciatica, sacroiliac joint arthritis, piriformis syndrome, and hamstring tendonitis. However, a less common [...]
Deep buttock pain: how do you find the cause?
Deep buttock pain, also known as deep gluteal syndrome, is common in active people. However, due to the complex anatomy of the buttock, it can be [...]
Cervical rib and thoracic outlet syndrome: how to diagnose
Thoracic outlet syndrome, also known as TOS, is a condition that causes symptoms in the arm secondary to pressure on structures running between the collarbone and [...]
Osteitis pubis: treatment tips by Scott Newton
If you are a runner who has tightness in the groin and/or tummy, you might have osteitis pubis or pubic overload. This condition is also common [...]
Wrist pop and pain: what are the causes?
Wrist pain and popping or clicking are common complaints. Generally, wrist injuries with popping can be due to overuse from activity or sport or trauma from [...]
Popliteus tendonitis: a cause of pain on the outside of the knee
Popliteus tendinitis, also known as popliteus tendonitis or tenosynovitis, is a rare cause of pain at the back and/or outside of the knee. Generally, this condition [...]
Upper arm pain: causes and treatment
Upper arm pain is common and can come from the outside shoulder, upper arm, elbow, or neck. Causes of arm pain can be traumatic or overuse. [...]
Ultrasound-guided cortisone injection: is it better than unguided?
Should you have an ultrasound-guided cortisone injection? Traditionally, doctors performed injections 'blind.' This means the doctor needs to know the anatomy and feel of a cortisone [...]
Sudden shoulder pain without injury: what are the causes?
It is often difficult to identify the exact cause of sharp pain in shoulder from rotator cuff tendonitis, AC degeneration, and frozen shoulder. This blog outlines [...]
Having an ultrasound guided injection? top 4 questions to ask
Injections are an essential part of the treatment of many musculoskeletal conditions. Generally, commonly injected medications include cortisone, local anaesthetic, hyaluronic acid, and platelet-rich plasma. We [...]
Chest and rib pain: common causes
Chest pain is always thought to be related to heart disease. Although a heart attack should always be excluded, a common cause of chest pain is [...]
Snapping elbow syndrome: why is my elbow snapping?
Snapping elbow syndrome, also called triceps snapping syndrome, is a rare cause of elbow pain. As such, it is often misdiagnosed and treated incorrectly. Also, not [...]
Tensor fasciae latae pain: common cause of hip pain in runners
Hip pain is a common injury in active runners. Pain outside the hip is thought to be due to trochanteric bursitis or gluteus medius tendinopathy. However, [...]
Snapping hip syndrome: what causes it and how do we treat it?
Snapping hip syndrome is a condition that causes a snap or pop sound in the hip area with everyday hip movements. Sometimes, the snap can be [...]
Hip apophysitis: a common cause of hip pain in sporty teens
Hip pain in sporty teens can be challenging. Active teens are at risk of hip pain due to many causes. The most common cause is hip [...]
Achilles tendon pain after running: FAQs
Achilles tendon pain after running is one of the more common complaints in active people. Tendons are made up of strong and tightly packed collagen fibres [...]
Bipartite patella: treatment options for congenital split of patella
Pain at the front of the knee can be due to patellofemoral pain, patellar tendonitis, fat pad impingement, or plica syndrome. One less common cause is [...]
Achilles tendon rupture: frequently asked questions
The Achilles tendon is the largest in the body, attaching the heel bone to the calf muscles. As large forces are applied to the tendon, it [...]
Do you have a fibula stress fracture?
Stress fractures of fibula are common in runners and can present with pain and swelling just above the ankle. How can you tell you have a [...]
Suprascapular nerve block ultrasound
A suprascapular nerve block is one of several injections to treat chronic shoulder pain. Doing this injeciton with ultrasound makes it easy. So how do we [...]
Morel lavallee lesion: Do you need to it drained?
Morel Lavallee lesion is a common swelling resulting from trauma. Common sites include the outside hip and thigh. How do we manage a morel-lavallee lesion, and [...]
High hamstring tendinopathy: a runner’s curse
Chronic high hamstring tendinopathy is often called the runner's curse - and for a good reason. This overuse injury is common in runners and sports, including [...]
Triceps tendonitis: the weightlifter’s elbow
A weightlifter's elbow is often thought to be due to inflammation of the biceps tendon that attaches to the front of the elbow. The triceps tendon [...]
SLAP lesion of shoulder: do you really need surgery?
A SLAP lesion of the shoulder is a specific type of shoulder labral tear. Generally, problematic SLAP tears occur in young people involved in throwing sports [...]
PCL tear: do you need surgery?
Most people have heard of an ACL injury suffered commonly by amateur and elite athletes of all ages. However, a posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) injury accounts [...]
Paralabral cyst shoulder: How to treat
A paralabral cyst, or ganglion cyst, is a fluid collection arising from the shoulder's ball and socket joint. Generally, these cysts don't cause symptoms unless they [...]
Medial collateral ligament or MCL injury of the knee: what to do
An MCL injury occurs when a force strikes the outside of the knee. The MCL tries to resist the force, causing stretching and tearing of the [...]
Midfoot sprain: Beware the Lisfranc injury
The midfoot consists of bones and joints attaching the front of the ankle to the forefoot. Injuries to this area of the foot also called a [...]
Myositis ossificans: how to treat
Myositis ossificans is an uncommon complication after a muscle tear or acute trauma. Generally, bone forms in the muscle after a muscle injury, causing pain and [...]
Parsonage-turner syndrome (brachial neuritis): how to treat
Parsonage-turner syndrome, also called brachial neuritis or neuralgia, is a neurological disorder causing severe pain followed by lasting damage to the nerves and muscles. Generally, this [...]
Osgood-schlatter in adults: How to manage
Osgood-Schlatter disease causes a painful bony lump below the knee. Usually, it occurs in children and adolescents who are sporty. Generally, pain and swelling settle after [...]
Diastasis recti in men and women: is surgery the only answer?
Diastasis recti is a condition describing the abnormal separation of the rectus muscles of the abdominal wall. It is common in women who have given birth. [...]
Groin nerve pain: Overview and treatment options
When people experience pain in the lower abdomen where the leg meets the pelvis, we often call it groin pain. Pain in the groin can also [...]
Living with chronic pain: FAQs
Pain is a common complaint reported to health practitioners. It is estimated that over 10 million people in the UK are dealing with chronic pain. Often, [...]
Hallux rigidus treatment: what can you do?
Hallux rigidus is also known as big toe arthritis. It affects adults, usually between the ages of 30-50, and is typically the result of a previous [...]
Subtalar joint injection
The subtalar joint is often forgotten when people present with ankle pain. However, it is often the site of breaks, sprains, and early arthritis causing pain [...]
Pinched nerve in calf: how to diagnose
A pinched nerve in calf is a potential cause of pain in the lower leg or foot, especially when imaging is normal. How do we make [...]
What is Pseudogout?
Pseudogout, also called CPPD disease, occurs when calcium crystals form in joints. This formation of crystals causes joint pain and swelling, often misdiagnosed as gout or [...]
Burning pain in front of thigh: Do you have Meralgia Paraesthetica?
Meralgia paraesthetica is a condition that causes burning pain in the outer and front parts of the thigh. It is caused by trapping the lateral femoral [...]
CRPS: What is the best treatment?
CRPS, also known as chronic regional pain syndrome, is a condition thought to be due to an abnormality in the nerves in the spinal cord or [...]
Most common orthopaedic procedures: do you need it?
In general, most common orthopaedic procedures are done for soft tissue pathology (joint, tendon, and nerves). In the UK alone, 25% of all surgeries performed in [...]
Plica syndrome: is it a cause of knee pain?
Synovial tissue lines the knee joint and produces fluid to lubricate the joint. Plica is a thickening of the synovium lining separating the knee joint into [...]
What to do about no cartilage in knee
Knee cartilage starts to wear away as we get older. Knee pain and swelling symptoms develop as the cartilage cushioning begins to fail. So what happens [...]
Second toe pain: possible causes
Pain in the second toe is a common complaint in runners and active sportspeople. There are many possible causes of second toe pain with different treatment [...]
Collarbone Pain: causes and treatment options
The collarbone, also known as the clavicle, connects the shoulder with the chest wall or sternum. Collarbone pain can be due to an injury such as [...]
Olecranon bursitis: How to manage it
Olecranon bursitis, also called elbow bursitis, is a collection of fluid in the sac behind the elbow. This condition can appear out of nowhere or triggered [...]
How long does it take for ibuprofen to work?: FAQ about NSAIDS
Ibuprofen is a common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to relieve pain from musculoskeletal disorders such as arthritis, ligament tear, and tendon inflammation. We answer frequently [...]
Frozen shoulder treatments: which is best?
Frozen shoulder is a widespread problem that causes shoulder pain and stiffness. Generally, it is more common in women between 40 and 60. This blog outlines [...]
Running after cortisone injections: FAQ on marathon training
Marathons are gruelling events. Often, for many contestants, the hard work of training starts early. The goal is to develop fitness slowly and gradually without getting [...]
CrossFit elbow pain: what could it be?
Crossfit is an exercise program that aims to enhance fitness by using functional exercises: running, gymnastics, rowing, and plyometrics. Generally, exercises are varied, so one day, [...]
Crossfit wrist pain: 4 common causes
CrossFit is a high-intensity program of functional exercises. Typically the program incorporates running, gymnastics, weights, rowing, and plyometrics. So, it is no surprise that the wrist [...]
Weightlifter’s shoulder: how should you manage it?
Weightlifter's shoulder, also known as distal clavicular osteolysis, is pain arising from the end of the collarbone. The bone undergoes swelling and breakdown, leading to pain [...]
Crossfit injuries: what you should know
We can all pick the Crossfit participants from a mile away: a lean and fit group of like-minded fitness devotees who are enthusiastic and work hard. [...]
Amitriptyline for pain: frequently asked questions
Amitriptyline is an old-style anti-depressant that we sometimes use for pain conditions at lower doses than depression. As amitriptyline works on the nervous system, it's more [...]
Climbers finger and other climbing injuries: what you need to know
Climbing is becoming more popular with those people who enjoy a challenge and the thrill of adventure and risk-taking. Generally, indoor and rock climbing tests the [...]
Jones fracture: what should you do?
A Jones fracture is a crack in the bone at the 5th metatarsal or little toe. The 5th metatarsal fracture occurs at the midfoot at the [...]
Torn pec muscle: what does it mean for you?
A torn pec muscle is a relatively common injury in bodybuilders and gym enthusiasts. In addition, we see torn chest muscles in certain contact sports such [...]
Sesamoiditis: a cause of big toe pain
Sesamoiditis, also known as inflammation of the sesamoid bone of the big toe, is a common cause of big toe pain in runners. Generally, it is [...]
Midfoot arthritis: what should you do
Midfoot arthritis is a common cause of pain in the foot in middle-aged and elderly patients. The midfoot connects the heel to the front of the [...]
Pain behind knee: what should you do?
In general, pain behind the knee is one of the more challenging musculoskeletal problems. There are many possible causes - muscle tear, tendon, nerve damage, and [...]
Osteitis pubis steroid injection: useful or not?
There are many causes of groin pain in athletes. One of the more common causes of groin pain is osteitis pubis, also known as pubic symphysitis. [...]
Are cortisone injections bad for you?
Over 500000 cortisone injections are performed for musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis and tendonitis. Although cortisone effectively reduces inflammation in these conditions, it often gets a [...]
Quadriceps tendonitis: how to manage
Although less common than patellar tendonitis, quadriceps tendonitis is an important cause of quad pain above kneecap. So, how do we diagnose quadriceps tendon pain, and [...]
Injections for hip arthritis: which one is best?
The most common hip arthritis is osteoarthritis. This condition is characterised by progressive loss of the cartilage of the joint. As the cartilage is worn, bone [...]
Arthritis in wrist: what should you do?
Arthritis in wrist is a common cause of wrist pain as we age. This is because the cartilage in the radiocarpal joint wears away in wrist [...]
What are the common causes of hip pain after running?
Hip pain is common after running. The most common cause of hip pain after running is due to overload syndromes, but other reasons, such as hip [...]
Sacroiliac joint injection: when and how?
Sacroiliac joint pain is an under-recognised cause of buttock or groin pain. Generally, treatment consists of exercise therapy and activity modification. However, not all cases settle [...]
Torn meniscus in knee: what should you do?
A torn meniscus in knee is a common cause of knee pain affecting active sportspeople and the elderly. Previously, we would treat a torn meniscus with [...]
Jumper’s knee (patellar tendinitis): what to do when rehab stalls
What is jumper's knee? Jumper's knee, also known as patellar tendinitis, is an overuse patellar tendon injury causing pain below the kneecap. This tendon connects the [...]
Arthritis in knee cap: how to treat
Arthritis of the knee cap, also called patellofemoral arthritis, is a common cause of pain at the front of the knee. The cartilage behind the knee [...]
Cubital tunnel syndrome: what should you do?
Cubital tunnel syndrome is a nerve pressure syndrome causing pain, numbness, and pins and needles. Many people have heard of carpal tunnel syndrome, a nerve pressure [...]
Piriformis syndrome: what is it?
Piriformis syndrome is a chronic condition arising from the piriformis muscle. This muscle causes pain locally in the buttocks. However, given its closeness to the sciatic [...]
PRP injections for knees: FAQ
The most common cause of arthritis in the knee is osteoarthritis. The progressive wearing of the cartilage characterises this condition. As the cartilage is worn away, [...]
Sinus tarsi syndrome: How to treat
Sinus tarsi syndrome is a relatively common condition causing pain at the front and outside of the ankle. Generally, it is often confused with other ankle [...]
Fat pad impingement: What are your options?
Fat pad impingement of the knee, also called Hoffa's syndrome, is a common cause of pain in the front of the knee. However, we should differentiate [...]
Scapholunate ligament tear: not just a wrist sprain
A wrist sprain is a diagnosis we give to persistent wrist pain after a fall. There are many potential causes of wrist pain after injury, with [...]
Syndesmosis injury: How do we treat it?
Syndesmosis injury, also known as a high ankle injury, is more common than thought. Generally, these injuries occur with other damages such as ankle sprain and [...]
PRP for tennis elbow: what is the evidence?
Tennis elbow or lateral epicondylitis is among the most common cause of elbow pain. It does not solely occur in tennis players but in anyone active [...]
Lump on the side of knee: do you have a meniscal cyst?
A lump on the side of knee - either inside or outside- is most likely a meniscal cyst. A meniscal cyst is a collection of thick [...]
Heel bursitis: what does it mean and what should you do?
Posterior heel pain is a common condition affecting the general population. When doctors talk about posterior heel pain, they mean pain at the back rather than [...]
Cortisone vs Hyaluronic acid for knee pain: which is best?
Overall, exercise therapy is the best form of medicine for knee arthritis. Also, other factors such as weight loss and reducing cholesterol and sugar are essential. [...]
Cortisone injection cost privately
Cortisone Shot London is a new low-cost service for private insurance and self-pay patients. Given the current wait times in the NHS, this service meets the [...]
Elbow bursitis: what is it and how to treat it
Elbow bursitis, also called olecranon bursitis, is swelling in the sac of fluid at the back of the elbow. It often presents as a soft lump [...]
Hip dysplasia in adults: what should you do?
Hip dysplasia in adults is a medical term to describe an abnormal hip joint shape. Usually, the socket of the joint is too shallow for the [...]
Pulled calf muscle: Do you have a calf tear or something else?
Sudden calf pain during sport is often due to a calf tear or pulled calf muscle. A calf tear is also known as a calf strain [...]
Os Trigonum: a common cause of posterior ankle impingement
Os Trigonum is a small extra bone that sits at the back of the ankle joint. This extra bone is present in 5-15% of the general [...]
How do peroneal tendons cause problems?
The peroneal tendons connect the muscles outside the lower leg with the outside of the foot. These tendons can cause ankle problems through tendonitis, tear, and [...]
Posterior tibial tendonitis: A cause of flat foot
Posterior tibial tendonitis causes pain on the inside of the ankle. Generally, treatment consists of exercises, orthotics, and injections. So, how long does posterior tibial tendon [...]
Ankle injection: what are the options for ankle arthritis?
Ankle arthritis is less common than knee or hip arthritis. The most common joint affected is the ankle joint between the leg (tibia) and the ankle [...]
Is Nstride prp: an effective regenerative injection therapy?
Platelet-rich plasma, also known as regenerative injection therapy, is a treatment for common musculoskeletal conditions, including knee arthritis. We produce PRP from whole blood taken from [...]
Navicular stress fracture: cause of ankle pain in runners
A navicular stress fracture is a common overuse injury in active athletes. We see this injury in runners, basketballers, track and field athletes, and soccer players. [...]
Long head of biceps tendonitis: A cause of shoulder pain?
Shoulder pain may be due to many causes, such as rotator cuff tendinosis, shoulder joint arthritis, and frozen shoulder. However, in some less common cases, shoulder [...]
Hip pain in runners: Is it a hip stress fracture?
A stress fracture of the hip is an injury close to the ball and socket hip joint. Stress fractures are injuries to the bone caused by [...]
Calcaneal stress fracture: a cause of runner’s heel pain
Heel pain is common in runners. While plantar fasciitis is the most frequent cause of heel pain in runners, a calcaneal stress fracture can also occur. [...]
Bursa injection for rotator cuff injuries: is it worth it?
Rotator cuff tendon problems are the most common cause of shoulder pain. Problems with the rotator cuff tendons include tendonitis, calcification, and tears. Generally, treatment is [...]
Cortisone shot in hand: an option for wrist or hand arthritis?
Your hand and wrist consist of a complex set of bones, joints, tendons, nerves, and muscles that work perfectly to bring seamless coordination to fine motor [...]
Hip impingement: how do we treat it?
Hip impingement, also known as femoroacetabular impingement, is associated with an abnormal ball and socket joint shape. It is common in active sportspeople and even more [...]
Baker’s cyst on ultrasound: is it worth draining?
A Baker's cyst, also known as a popliteal cyst, arises from the knee joint and causes a lump at the back of the knee. Generally, we [...]
Aspiration of ganglion cyst: Is it worth it?
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled capsules that commonly form on the top of wrists. However, these cysts can form around any joint or tendon. Removing the fluid [...]
Shoulder joint injection: Is it effective for shoulder arthritis?
Shoulder arthritis causes pain and stiffness. It occurs in people older than 50 and is more common after an injury. Shoulder joint injections can help. But [...]
AC joint injection: when is it useful?
AC joint injection is used to treat pathology such as AC joint arthritis. When is an AC joint effective, how do we do it and what [...]
Immediate gout pain relief: is a cortisone injection an option?
Gout is an inflammatory joint disease commonly affecting men in their 40s and 50s but sometimes younger. It causes severe pain and swelling. Most people want [...]
Chronic heel pain: Is it Baxter’s nerve entrapment?
Plantar fasciitis or heel spurs are the most common cause of chronic heel pain. However, not all cases of heel pain are due to plantar fasciitis. [...]
Lateral ligament ankle sprain: how to treat it properly?
A lateral ligament ankle sprain occurs when the ligaments outside the ankle are stretched beyond their limits. Injury to these ligaments causes pain and swelling in [...]
Housemaids knee or prepatellar bursitis: What can you do about it?
Housemaids knee, also known as prepatellar bursitis or kneecap bursitis, causes swelling and pain at the front of the knee. So why is it called housemaids [...]
How long does it take for a cortisone shot to work: FAQs
We use cortisone injections for arthritis and tendonitis. Commonly asked questions include how long does it take for a cortisone shot to work. We answer the [...]
Iliopsoas tendon injection: will it help iliopsoas bursitis?
Iliopsoas bursitis/tendonitis is a vague term relating to symptoms arising from the iliopsoas tendon, which bends your leg at the hip. It is an overuse condition [...]
Meniscus injections: alternative to meniscus surgery?
Most meniscal tears in the knees are degenerative and get better with exercise. However, some cases are more challenging and don't improve. Previously, we would offer [...]
Hyaluronic acid and PRP injection for knee arthritis
Knee arthritis is a common disease in the general population. A recent study found twice as many people have this condition compared to 10 years ago. [...]
Antibiotics and Achilles tendons: harmful or helpful?
Achilles tendonitis is a common injury in middle-aged runners and elite and amateur sportspeople. The most common cause is too much load on the tendon. However, [...]
Cortisone shot in big toe joint: when is it needed?
Arthritis in big toe, also known as hallux rigidus, is a common condition causing pain and reduced movement. Cortisone shot in big toe joint is helpful [...]
Frozen shoulder hydrodilatation injection: do you need it?
Adhesive capsulitis hydrodilatation is a special type of frozen shoulder cortisone injection to treat pain and restriction of movement. But what is a frozen shoulder hydrodilatation [...]
Bicep tendonitis elbow: a common injury in gym-goers
One of the more common gym injuries is bicep tendonitis elbow. Generally, too much exercise or overload leads to swelling of the biceps tendon and distal [...]
Golfers elbow injections: what are your options?
Golfers elbow injections are helpful in complex cases that fail other treatments. But how do you correctly diagnose Golfer's elbow, and what treatments are available apart [...]
What to do about greater trochanteric pain syndrome?
Our hip joints are one the largest and strongest in our body. They provide strength and flexibility during walking, running, and jumping. However, the hip joints [...]
Proximal hamstring tendinopathy: Management by Scott Newton
If you are a runner who has been experiencing an ache in the back of your upper thigh or buttock – close to your ‘sit bones’- [...]
Hyaluronic acid injection for joints and tendons: Is it useful?
Arthritis and tendonitis are common in the general public. For those active in sports or running, arthritis and tendonitis can cause pain and swelling that stops [...]
Pes anserine bursitis: How to treat it
Knee pain is common in runners. However, if your pain is inside your knee, you might have pes anserine bursitis or lower hamstring tendonitis. What does [...]
Calcific tendonitis shoulder: what should you do it about it?
Shoulder pain is a common complaint affecting up to a third of the general population. One cause of shoulder pain is calcific tendonitis shoulder, a very [...]
Should you have a cortisone injection in thumb joint?
Thumb arthritis is the most common arthritis of the hand and wrist, affecting the joint at the base of the thumb - also known as the [...]
De Quervain’s tenosynovitis injection: Should you have one?
De Quervain's tenosynovitis is a painful condition affecting the tendons of the thumb and wrist. So, it is unsurprising that patients ask about a De Quervain's [...]
Ultrasound carpal tunnel injection: Do you need it?
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a common wrist condition in the general population that we treat well with an ultrasound carpal tunnel injection. So, do you need [...]
Adductor tendonitis injection: options?
Adductor tendonitis is just one of many possible diagnoses of groin pain in runners or sportspeople. In a previous blog, Dr. Masci discussed the causes of [...]
Cortisone injection in knee: is it better than physiotherapy?
The results are in, and it’s not looking good for cortisone injections in knees. However, a study in the reputable NEJM comparing 1-3 cortisone injections to [...]
How to treat tendonitis from a tendonitis specialist
What is tendonitis? Tendons are rope-like collagen proteins bundled together to form fibrils. The primary function of tendons is to transmit forces from muscle to bone [...]
Groin pain in runners: what are the causes?
Groin pain in runners is often referred to as a pulled groin or groin strain. These terms suggest that pain is [...]
Cortisone injection for IT band syndrome: Is it worth it?
Some conditions in sports medicine are relatively easy to diagnose but are challenging to manage. A good example is a condition often seen in runners called [...]
Painful pars defect: A common cause of low back pain in the young
We are always on guard when an active young teen presents with low back pain. Unlike adults who experience general low back pain, many active teens [...]
Tendon scraping: a good option for difficult tendonitis?
Most patellar or Achilles tendonitis improves with exercise therapy to strengthen the muscles above and below the affected tendon. In addition, we occasionally use treatments such [...]
Knee injections for arthritis: which is best?
Arthritis occurs when the cartilage of the joint wears away, exposing bone. This bone exposure leads to pain, swelling, and reduced function. Generally, simple treatments such [...]
Tendon specialists: Tales from the Tendon clinic
This innovative webinar takes listeners through top tips on how to manage lower limb and buttock tendinopathy. Dr Lorenzo Masci, a sports [...]
How does a plantaris tendon cause Achilles pain?
Achilles tendonitis is one of the most common causes of ankle pain in anyone active such as walkers, runners, and those who play team sports. The [...]
Stem cell therapy for arthritis: Do they work?
Not a day goes by without a reference to the magical effects of stem cell therapy for the regeneration of nerves and muscles for diseases such [...]
Ultrasound guided injection: who should do it?
We use injections in sports medicine to reduce pain. Drugs injected include cortisone, hyaluronic acid, and platelet-rich plasma (PRP). In most cases, we perform these injections [...]
Steroid injections in shoulder: What are the options?
Overall, exercise is the most effective shoulder pain treatment. However, severe shoulder pain sometimes limits the amount of exercise that can be done. In these cases, [...]
Plantar fasciitis injection: Is it effective?
The plantar fascia is a strong fibrous band between the heel and forefoot and helps support the ankle and foot arch. Injury to the plantar fascia [...]
Tennis leg: New Study suggests Ultrasound is useful
Tennis leg is a common cause of calf pain in professional athletes and weekend warriors. Although 'tennis leg’ occurs in middle-aged tennis players, it also occurs [...]
Tendon injection: FAQ
The best treatment for most tendonitis is a rehab program with strengthening exercises. The key to getting tendons better is to do exercise and be patient. [...]
Shockwave therapy for MSK conditions: FAQ
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy treats common MSK conditions such as Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, tennis elbow, and stress fractures. In addition, there is good scientific evidence that [...]
GTN patch for tendonitis: should you use it?
Managing tendonitis is always tricky. We know that exercise therapy is the best treatment for tendonitis. However, some people struggle with exercise and require other treatments. [...]
Cortisone injection cost: Is it worth it? FAQ for patients
Over 500000 cortisone injections are performed annually on patients in the UK for joint and tendon problems. But is a cortisone injection cost in London worth [...]
Sports Doctor: why you should see one
You Need to See a Sport Doctor... When someone suffers a musculoskeletal injury, it can be difficult to know how to get help to ensure a [...]
Best treatment for arthritis: what should you know
What is the best treatment for arthritis? The American College of Rheumatologists has released guidelines for the best treatment for arthritis. These recommendations are based on [...]
Ultrasound hip joint injections
Why would someone have a hip injection? Hip joint injections relieve pain from joint diseases such as arthritis. Hip arthritis is among the most common causes [...]
Platelet-rich Plasma injections for arthritis and tendonitis
Platelet-rich Plasma or PRP injections for joints and tendons are becoming more popular. They form part of the new field of regenerative medicine for use in [...]
Frozen Shoulder injection: useful or not?
Frozen shoulder, also known as adhesive capsulitis, is an inflammatory condition affecting the shoulder joint capsule. It occurs in about 5% of the population and is [...]
Morton’s Neuroma injection: Do you need it?
Morton's neuroma is a thickening or swelling of the nerve between the small bones of your forefeet. The nerve becomes swollen because of the nerve trapping [...]
Tennis elbow injection: which is best?
Tennis elbow is a painful condition affecting the outer part of the elbow joint. It is common in athletes and ordinary people who perform repetitive elbow [...]