Evidence based literature for Common MSK conditions we treat

Tennis elbow is a common condition that causes pain around the outside—or less commonly, the inside—of the elbow. In the vast majority of cases, there is no clear cause or injury. Most people experience improvement over time with simple exercises, activity modification, and, in some cases, splinting. However, if symptoms persist beyond three months despite these conservative measures, injection therapy may be considered.

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De Quervain’s tenosynovitis is a common condition that causes pain around the thumb, wrist, and forearm. In most cases, there is no specific mechanism of injury. Common treatments include medication, therapeutic exercises, and splinting. However, if symptoms persist beyond three months despite these measures, injection therapy may be considered as a next step in management.

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Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common condition we treat with injections. It is particularly prevalent among older adults and is characterized by the gradual wearing down of the joint surfaces. While injection therapy is not typically considered a first-line treatment in the management of knee osteoarthritis, it may be introduced earlier in cases where the condition is more advanced or when other conservative treatments have proven ineffective.

Shoulder pain is the second most common condition we treat. There are many potential causes, but the most frequent source of pain originates from the rotator cuff and/or the subacromial bursa. These structures are common targets for injection therapy, which is often performed with good success in reducing pain and improving function.

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome is a common condition characterized by pain, tingling, and numbness in the thumb, index, middle, and ring fingers. Symptoms often disturb sleep and may be temporarily relieved by shaking the hand. Initial treatment typically includes medications, splinting, and simple exercises. Injection therapy can be considered early in the course of the condition, particularly when symptoms are severe or significantly affecting daily function. 

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​Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome (GTPS) is a common condition that causes pain around the outside of the hip. It’s not unusual for the pain to radiate down the leg. Many people find it uncomfortable to lie on the affected side at night, and walking can also be painful. Injection therapy can help settle the symptoms completely in some cases. However, it is more common for periodic injections to be needed to manage the pain—especially when lifestyle factors or activity demands contribute to flare-ups.

Back pain is the leading cause of time off work due to disability worldwide. In many cases, there is no specific injury that triggers an episode of back pain. Fortunately, the vast majority of cases improve naturally without the need for major treatments.

Research shows that back pain commonly improves within 10 days to 3 months.

However, when pain is severe or causes significant disability, medical treatment may be necessary. In the early stages of recovery, common treatments include:

• Medication

• Physiotherapy

• Chiropractic care

• Heat therapy

• Acupuncture

These approaches can help manage symptoms and support recovery.

If symptoms persist despite these measures, more advanced treatments such as injection therapy or, in rare cases, surgery may be considered. Before moving on to these options, an MRI is recomended.