Musculoskeletal (MSK) podiatry

Musculoskeletal (MSK) podiatry is a community and hospital-based service which is concerned with the biomechanics of the lower leg and foot.

The service specialises in diagnosing and treating injuries and conditions involving the bones, joints, muscles and nerves of the lower leg, ankle and foot. The team is comprised of advanced and specialised podiatrists who have extensive knowledge of assessing the lower limb, as well as how it can affect gait and other daily activities.

Assessment will include the most appropriate technique to diagnose the presenting complaint. This may include a thorough history taking, examining the walk that you walk, a footwear assessment and a hands-on assessment of the ligaments/joints/nerves and muscles related to the problem you are having.

If deemed appropriate, diagnostic investigations such as X-rays and ultrasounds can be requested by podiatrists in the service. Similarly, onward referral to other services such as foot & ankle surgery can be managed by your health care professional should this be deemed necessary.

Treatments which are currently offered  include, but are not limited to:

  • Orthotics (insoles and other devices)
  • Exercise prescription
  • Shockwave therapy
  • Corticosteroid injections
  • Footwear and management advice

Treatments are decided in conjunction with patients and dependant on the result of any assessments carried out.

Patients can be referred via their GP practice, which must be based in North Tyneside or Northumberland. 

For more information about common conditions relating to the lower limb please follow the common conditions page on the dashboard.

Initial appointments are face-to-face at one of our clinical sites. Our sites are below:

Northumberland Podiatry Department,
Northumberland Podiatry Hub,
Thomas Knight unit,
Blyth Community Hospital,
Thoroton Street,
Blyth, NE24 1DX,
Tel: 0167 039 6461

North Tyneside Podiatry Department,
Victoria Therapy Centre,
Hawkeys Lane,
North Shields,
Tyne & Wear, NE29 0SF
Tel: 0191 282 8080

Home visits are not offered. Appointments are available Monday to Friday.

Some of the common conditions that we can diagnose and treat include: