Careful assessment first, image-guided treatment where appropriate, and a clear plan for recovery.
Treatment at Dorset Pain Clinic begins with understanding the cause of pain. We do not believe in offering procedures without careful assessment.
The best treatment depends on symptoms, examination findings, imaging results, previous treatment and personal goals. For some patients, treatment may focus on rehabilitation and advice. For others, image-guided injections may help reduce pain and support recovery.
Consultant pain assessment
A consultation allows us to understand the pain pattern, medical history, previous treatments and imaging findings. We explain what may be causing the pain and discuss the most appropriate next steps.
Image-guided injections
Image-guided injections are performed using imaging equipment to help guide treatment accurately to the intended area. Depending on the target, ultrasound or X-ray guidance may be used. Image guidance can improve accuracy and help avoid unnecessary treatment in the wrong area.
Ultrasound-guided
Ultrasound-guided injections
Ultrasound allows real-time visualisation of joints, tendons, bursae and soft tissues. It is commonly used for selected musculoskeletal injections.
Shoulder injections
Hip injections
Knee injections
Trochanteric bursa injections
Tendon and soft tissue injections
Plantar fascia injections
spinal procedures
X-ray-guided spinal procedures
Some spinal procedures require X-ray guidance to accurately identify the correct target.
Caudal epidural injections
Facet joint injections
Medial branch blocks
Sacroiliac joint injections
Benefits, risks and limitations
Image-guided injections may help selected patients by reducing pain, improving movement and supporting rehabilitation. However, they are not suitable for everyone and they are not a guaranteed cure. Possible risks depend on the procedure and patient factors. These will be discussed clearly before treatment.
Rehabilitation and recovery
Pain relief is often only one part of recovery. In many cases, treatment works best when combined with rehabilitation, activity progression and functional recovery.
