Back pain is a very common problem, which affects 4 out of 5 of us at some point. Fortunately, most back pain is not due to anything serious and rarely needs a scan although multiple factors can contribute to it, including physical, mental and lifestyle aspects. The people who cope best with back pain are those who stay active and get on with life despite some pain.

Neck pain is a common problem – 2 out of 3 of us will experience it at some point. It’s not usually serious and most often eases on its own or with simple advice and neck exercises. Neck pain is often caused by a simple muscle strain or tension. Other causes include injury, such as whiplash, or gradual changes to the joints due to natural ageing.

Shoulder pain is common but it is rarely caused by arthritis. The shoulder is the most mobile joint in the body and can be affected by a number of conditions. The most likely cause for shoulder pain is related to the deep tendons of the shoulder, which will improve although can take several months to get better.

Knee pain is a common problem for children and adults. There are many different causes for knee pain at different stages of life although most will improve with simple management and will not require surgery. Knee pain can be related to the joint or soft tissue structures including the ligaments or tendons. The hip and foot position can also contribute to knee problems.

Hip pain can affect people at all stages of life for different reason. Causes of hip pain can be due to the joint or surrounding soft tissue structures and usually get better with simple measures. Most cases of hip pain do not require X-rays or scans although there are occasions where these investigations may be needed.

The foot is a complex and hard-working structure which can be susceptible to overload type problems involving joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves. Sprains to the ankle or foot can be common causes for pain and usually get better reasonably quickly despite severe pain initially. Footwear and natural foot position can also influence ankle and foot problems.

Elbow pain is quite a common problem but it’s not usually a sign of arthritis. The most likely cause of elbow pain is related to the tendons that attach to either side of the elbow and linked to repetitive or excessive use of the wrist and forearm muscles. This will improve although can take several months to get better.

The hand is a complex and multi-functional structure with numerous anatomical structures that can be the cause for wrist and hand pain including the joints, ligaments, tendons and nerves. Different conditions will need slightly different management although often pain will improve gradually returning to using the hand normally again.

Persistent pain (sometimes called chronic pain) is described as pain that lasts for 3 months or more despite standard medical treatment. It is surprisingly common and affects 1 in 5 people and the cause for the ongoing pain is no longer related to tissue damage, but due to an over sensitive pain protective system.