When you have musculoskeletal pain or other problems such as stiffness, instablity, numbness or weakness.

This is usually decided alongside your GP or primary health provider. We also work closely with Orthopaedic surgeons, physiotherapists, chiropracters and osteopaths and they may request our opinion.

Your health practitioner will refer you. This can be your GP, surgeon, medical specialist, physiotherapist, chiropracter or osteopath. Once you have a referral, call our reception to make the booking.

Please indicate if your problem is covered by ACC, health insurance or privately funded.

We have locations in Albany, Greenlane and Takapuna.

This will depend on the complexity of your problem and what treatment is performed. Typically we will see you at least three times to assess your problem, make a treatment plan and then follow it up.

These three appointments can be made when you first register with us and then further appointments booked as required.

The MSK Institute is a member of the Spinal Intervention Society and performs minimally-invasive procedures for chronic neck and back pain. These are done in a radiology department to ensure maximum safety and accuraciy.

Types of procedures include nerve injections, disc injections, facet joint injections, epidurals, sacroiliac joint injections and facet joint rhizolysis.

PRP stands for Platelet Rich Plasma. If done correctly using the proper technique, in the right patient, for the right reason then it has excellent results. It works by taking the healing cells from your blood, and injecting them into the site of injury or pain. The Platelet cells gather and activate growth factors to stimulate healing and regeneration.

Joints and tendons dont get as much blood-supply as other organs in our body so using PRP short-cuts that step. We have trained radiologists on-site to ensure accuracy and safety

For more information click here: www.ultrasight.co.nz

PRP aims to try treat and heal the underlying damage using a regenerative approach. It may take longer to work but the benefits can also be longer. It is your own cells taken from your blood so has less risk of an allergy or an infection.

Cortisone or steroid injection aims to reduce the pain and swelling associated with the damage. It works quickly being a potent anti-inflammatory and pain reliever and can help in the rehabilitation process to get our patients moving free from pain.

MSK Specialists/Physicians are doctors who've graduated medical school and then specialised. They diagnose Musculoskeletal issues by consultation and then ordering relevant investigations such as blood tests, nerve studies and high tech imaging.

We have a large range of treatment options available to us in addition to Physical therapy.

We will often work with your physiotherapist to customise physical therapy to your problem.

MSK Physicians treat all patients for any Musculoskeletal problem. We have looked after Olympic athletes, elderley retirees and everything in between.

At the MSK Institute we treat the entire patient and not just the problem area. We have a broad approach that covers sports related injury and performance but also issues such as chronic pain, arthritis, stiffness and nerve damage.

PRP (Platelet-Rich Plasma) injections are typically spaced 4-6 weeks apart, with most patients requiring 1-3 injections. The exact number and spacing depend on the individual's condition and response to treatment. For some conditions, like knee osteoarthritis, injections might be given a week apart for a total of 3 sessions.

General Guidelines for PRP Injection Spacing:

• Most patients: 1-3 injections, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

• Knee osteoarthritis: 3 injections, potentially spaced a week apart.

• Tendons, muscles, and ligaments: Up to 3 injections, spaced 2 weeks apart.

• Hair restoration: 4-6 sessions, spaced 4-6 weeks apart.

Factors Influencing Injection Spacing:

• Condition being treated: Different conditions may require different injection schedules.

• Individual response: Some individuals may respond quickly, requiring fewer injections.

• Doctor's recommendation: The treating physician will determine the optimal schedule based on the patient's specific needs.

Important Considerations:

• Physical therapy: Physiotherapy is often recommended between and after PRP injections to maximize benefits.

• Follow-up: Improvement can be gradual and may continue for up to 12 months.

• Repeat treatments: PRP treatments can be repeated after 6-12 months, if necessary.

Steroid injections, specifically corticosteroid injections are used to reduce inflammation and pain. They are often given for conditions like arthritis, bursitis, and tendonitis. While effective for short-term relief, they are not recommended for frequent or repeated use in the same area due to potential tissue damage. Generally, injections are spaced at least 3 months apart and limited to a few per year, with a maximum of 3-4 per year often recommended.

Frequency and Timing:

• Recommended Spacing: At least 3 months between injections in the same area.

• Annual Limit: Most providers advise limiting injections to 3-4 per year.

• Individualized Approach: The specific frequency depends on the individual's condition and response to treatment.

Potential Risks and Side Effects:

• Tissue Damage: Repeated injections can weaken tendons and ligaments, potentially leading to long-term damage.

• Bone Weakening: Excessive injections can contribute to osteoporosis.

• Other Side Effects: Insomnia, flushing, and temporary blood sugar elevation in diabetics are also possible, says HSS.

When to Consider Alternatives:

• Diminishing Returns: If pain relief is not sustained or side effects become problematic, surgery or other treatments may be considered.

• Rehabilitation: Injections are often used in conjunction with other therapies like physiotherapy to address the underlying cause of the pain.

Important Considerations:

• Consult with a Doctor: Discuss your specific situation and any concerns you have with your healthcare provider.

• Follow Instructions: Adhere to your doctor's recommendations regarding injection frequency and post-injection care.