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How to Spot a Soft Tissue Lump: Key Signs and Symptoms of Sarcomas

Early detection of soft tissue sarcomas is crucial in improving treatment outcomes. A soft tissue lump can signify various conditions, ranging from benign cysts to more serious malignancies, such as sarcomas. This guide helps you understand how to identify soft tissue lumps, the key warning signs, and diagnostic steps, including ultrasound and scan procedures used in clinical assessments. What Does a Soft Lump Mean in Medical Terms? A soft lump often refers to a growth within the body's soft tissues. Medically, these lumps can suggest a variety of conditions, both benign and malignant. Common causes include: Lipomas – Benign fat-based tumours Haematomas – Localised bleeding under the skin Abscesses – Fluid-filled pockets of infection Sarcomas – Rare, malignant tumours of connective tissues Soft lumps can appear in various parts of the body, including the arms, thighs, trunk, or neck. While many are benign, certain features can signal a more serious condition, s...
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How to Treat Bursitis in the Foot: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatments

What Is Bursitis in the Foot? Bursitis in the foot occurs when one or more bursae, fluid-filled sacs that cushion bones, tendons and muscles, become inflamed. These bursae reduce friction in the foot during movement. There are more than 30 bursae in the foot, with common locations including the ball of the foot, heel, and base of the big toe. When inflamed, they cause foot pain, swelling, and discomfort during walking or standing. Where Can Bursitis Occur in the Foot? Bursitis can develop in multiple locations across the foot due to pressure or repetitive strain: Ball of the foot : Often called bursitis of the ball of the foot; pain centres under the metatarsal heads. Heel : Known as heel bursitis, it typically affects the retrocalcaneal bursa. Big toe and great toe : Causes include bursitis big toe, bursitis great toe, and a bursa on the toe, often misdiagnosed as gout or bunions. Top of the foot : Bursitis here causes pain on the top of the foot, especially wh...

Lower Back Pain That Feels Like It’s Locking: Causes, Relief & Costs

What does “lower back pain feels like it’s locking” mean? When lower back pain feels like it’s locking, the spine or pelvis briefly feels stuck or jammed when you move—often after sitting or when standing up. This usually reflects facet joint irritation, sacroiliac joint dysfunction , and/or muscle spasm that limits the glide of the small joints, rather than a pinched nerve from a slipped disc. Why your “back locks up when I stand” — common triggers Rising from a chair, twisting to reach, or taking first steps after waking Prolonged sitting or long drives Deconditioning, recent over-exertion, or an awkward lift You may also notice short, sharp catches, stiffness, or a protective lean. These patterns are typical of mechanical pain sources. Common Causes 1) Facet Joint Irritation (Facet Arthropathy) Facet joints are small paired joints at the back of each spinal level. Inflammation here can cause localised low back pain, stiffness and spasm, which can feel like a “lock” during movement. ...

Understanding the Abdominopelvic Scan: A Key Tool in Pain Management

For patients experiencing persistent pain in the abdominal or pelvic region, identifying the root cause is essential before effective treatment can begin. At our private pain management clinic, we specialise in ultrasound-guided injections, and one of the most valuable diagnostic tools we use is the abdominopelvic scan . This non-invasive imaging technique provides detailed insights, allowing us to accurately diagnose problems and tailor pain relief treatments to each patient’s specific needs. What is an Abdominopelvic Scan? An abdominopelvic scan , often carried out using transabdominal ultrasound , is a safe and painless imaging method that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of the abdominal and pelvic organs. Unlike scans that involve radiation, ultrasound offers a non-invasive, radiation-free way of exploring potential causes of pain. In the context of pain management, this type of scan helps us identify issues such as inflammation, structural abnormalities, or problems...

Ischial Tuberosity Pain: Causes, Diagnosis, and Treatment Options

Ischial tuberosity pain typically results from inflammation or irritation in the lower pelvis, affecting daily activities like sitting or walking. Private pain clinics such as MSK Joint Care use ultrasound-guided injections to deliver targeted relief. What Is the Ischial Tuberosity? Subject : Ischial tuberosity Predicate : anchors Object : hamstring muscles When overloaded, it can develop inflammation in the adjacent bursa. What Causes Pain in the Ischial Tuberosity? Ischial tuberosity pain can be caused by: Ischial bursitis (inflammation of the ischial bursa) Chronic pressure from prolonged sitting Hamstring tendinopathy Trauma or falls Repetitive strain from sports or cycling The ischial bursa cushions the bone-tendon interface. When inflamed, this condition causes deep buttock pain, particularly during activities such as sitting, squatting, or stretching. What Are the Symptoms of Ischial Bursitis? Ischial bursitis symptoms typically include: Loc...