What is the musculo-skeletal service?
If you have a muscle, tendon or joint problem which doesn't need surgery, your GP may refer you to the musculo-skeletal (MSK) service.
It is run by specialist doctors and physiotherapists, who will assess your problem and treat it.
The MSK service is based at Castleford, Normanton and District Hospital in Castleford and also at Trinity Medical Centre, Thornhill Street, Wakefield.
What kinds of problem does the service treat?
- shoulder pain;
- elbow pain;
- finger, thumb, hand and wrist problems;
- knee problems, including sports injuries and arthritis; and
- heel, foot and ankle pain.
What happens?
On your first visit you will be given a 30-minute appointment, when you will have a full assessment by a doctor or physiotherapist. You may be:
- referred for X-rays and/or blood tests;
- referred for an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan to help diagnose your injury;
- told to do some exercises at home to help your recovery. Or you may be booked in with the physiotherapy team for treatment; and
- be told you need an injection in the problem area.
The doctors and physiotherapists are happy to answer any questions that you might have during your visit. You may find it useful to make a list of any questions so that you don't forget to ask them.
