Back, neck, shoulder, hip and knee pain are among the most common reasons people see a doctor. Most of these problems improve without surgery when the cause is identified correctly and treatment combines exercise, activity advice and, where suitable, medication or injections.

An accurate diagnosis starts with a careful history and examination. Imaging such as MRI is interpreted together with the symptoms: many findings on a report, such as a disc bulge, are also seen in people without pain. When nerve involvement is suspected, an EMG (a test of nerve and muscle function) can help.

Where to start: for the spine, read the lumbar disc herniation guide, the cervical disc herniation guide and What does my MRI report mean?. For joints, see the shoulder pain, hip pain and knee osteoarthritis guides.

Warning signs such as new weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, fever or severe night pain need prompt medical assessment. Your physical medicine and rehabilitation specialist and the physiotherapist plan treatment after examination.