Clinician Resources
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When to Refer Ankle Sprains: Identifying Persistent Instability and Missed Injury
Ankle sprains are one of the most common musculoskeletal injuries encountered in clinical practice and are often managed conservatively with good outcomes. However, a subset of patients will go on to experience persistent symptoms, instability, or may have sustained a more significant injury that is initially missed. Recognising when to escalate beyond initial management is…
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When to Refer Midfoot Pain: Recognising Degenerative Change
Midfoot pain is a common but often under-recognised presentation in clinical practice. While it may initially be attributed to soft tissue strain or overuse, it is important to identify when symptoms may reflect underlying instability or degenerative joint disease requiring further assessment and escalation of care. The midfoot plays a critical role in load transfer…
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When to Refer First MTP Joint Pain: Beyond Simple “Big Toe Pain”
First metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint pain is a common presentation in clinical practice, often described by patients simply as “big toe pain.” While many cases are managed conservatively, it is important to recognise when symptoms represent more complex joint pathology requiring further assessment and potential escalation of care. The causes of first MTP joint pain are…