# The Wharfedale Clinic

> Excellence in Musculoskeletal Medicine


## Posts

- [Dr Rishi Dhand joins the clinic](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/dr-rishi-dhand-joins-the-clinic/): Dr Rishi Dhand joins the clinic We are delighted to welcome Dr Rishi Dhand to The Wharfedale Clinic from March. Dr Dhand is an experienced Sports Medicine Doctor and has been the First Team Doctor at Leeds United F.C. since 2019. He specialises in musculoskeletal ultrasound and ultrasound-guided treatments for a range of conditions, including osteoarthritis, tendon injuries and other joint and soft-tissue problems. Dr Lakhera said, ‘We are really pleased to have Rishi on board. He is an excellent clinician who brings a wealth of experience not only from his role in sport but also in general musculoskeletal medicine. Rishi […]
- [Dr Martyn Speight announces his retirement](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/dr-martyn-speight-announces-his-retirement/): Martyn Speight’s Retirement: For those of you who have known me for some time, you will know that MSK/Sport/Exercise Medicine is not just a job for me, but a true vocation. However, all good things must come to an end and after some deliberation, I have made the decision to retire.  I would like to thank all the patients and my colleagues who have placed their trust in me over the years. I have enjoyed my career immensely and it has been an honour to work with you all.  I would also like to thank my wife, Lisa (Practice Manager), […]
- [Causes & Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/causes-management-of-msk-conditions/): The Causes & Management of Musculoskeletal Conditions Statistics collated in 2017 revealed that musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions affected around 18.8 million people across the UK. This encompasses a wide range of issues from osteoarthritis to back pain. In addition, in 2019, the Health and Safety Executive reported that an estimated 6.9 million working days were lost due to work related musculoskeletal disorders. It is clear that musculosketal conditions are extremely prevalent. Causes: Musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction can have a variety of causes and contributary factors e.g. Management: There are often things you can do to help yourself when you have a […]
- [Making a Diagnosis](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/making-a-diagnosis/): Making a Diagnosis An accurate diagnosis is the cornerstone of effective treatment. Without it, even the best treatments may fail to produce results. In this blog, we’ll explore the process of making a diagnosis and why it’s more than just getting a scan. The Three Key Components of Diagnosis Diagnosing a musculoskeletal condition involves gathering and analyzing information from three main sources: Clinical History: Listening to the Patient The first and most crucial step is talking to and listening to the patient. Since many musculoskeletal conditions present with similar symptoms, the clinician will ask specific questions to narrow down the […]
- [Debunking the Medical Jargon in Your Diagnosis](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/debunking-medical-jargon/): Debunking the Medical Jargon in Your Diagnosis Have you ever been diagnosed with a musculoskeletal condition and found yourself lost in a sea of medical jargon? Understanding these terms can help you make sense of your diagnosis and treatment plan. In this blog, we break down some of the most common medical terminology used in musculoskeletal diagnoses Understanding Medical Suffixes Many medical terms follow patterns that can help you decode their meaning. Take the suffix “-itis”, for example, which means inflammation: Recognizing this pattern can help you better understand what’s happening in your body. Naming of Musculoskeletal Conditions Some musculoskeletal […]
- [Understanding Pain](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/understanding-pain/): Understanding Pain Pain is something we all experience at some point and it can vary greatly in intensity and duration. Musculoskeletal pain affects bones, muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves. It can be localised or widespread. Acute Pain vs. Chronic Pain Pain is categorised as either acute or chronic depending on how long it has been present. These terms have nothing to do with its severity or intensity. ACUTE PAIN is pain that comes on suddenly, typically after an injury. It’s usually short-lived and resolves as the body heals. Key Message: Acute pain serves to protect the injured area and promote […]
- [Self help after a minor Musculoskeletal Injury](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/self-help-after-a-minor-msk-injury/): Self Help after a Minor Musculoskeletal Injury In this article, we summarise the principles of P.R.I.C.E as an initial self help measure particularly in the initial 24 to 72 hours following a minor musculoskeletal injury and explore some additional self help measures which may help. P.R.I.C.E stands for “Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation”, P: Protection is needed to prevent further injury. For example, if you have injured a leg or foot you may protect this by limiting or avoiding weight-bearing through this limb through the use of crutches, a cane, or hiking poles. If you have injured your arm, […]
- [Musculoskeletal Health when Working from Home](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/msk-health-when-wfh/): Musculoskeletal Health when Working from Home Working from home is more popular than ever so workstation set up is important at home. After all, we’re not really designed to sit in one position for hours on end. Poor posture can put additional strain on certain muscle groups and can lead to issues such as back, neck or wrist pain. So here are some tips when working from home with a laptop: Further information (including a diagram of an ergonomic working position) can be found at https://www.hse.gov.uk/toolbox/workers/home.htm but finally, remember to take regular breaks from your work. The Health and Safety […]
- [Cauda Equina](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/cauda-equina-a-medical-emergency/): Cauda Equina – A Medical Emergency Patients often have a combination of back pain, leg pain, leg numbness and leg weakness. These symptoms can be very distressing but they do not usually require emergency medical attention. However, there is a condition known as Cauda Equina Syndrome (CES) which is an uncommon but serious neurological condition affecting the cauda equina Know what is it and what the warning signs are The cauda equina is a group of nerves at the lowest point of your back that control your legs, bladder and bowel function and supply sensation to the skin around the […]
- [The Role of Medication in Pain](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/the-role-of-medication-in-pain/): The Role of Medication in Pain Musculoskeletal pain can be a real challenge, but before jumping straight to medication, if you haven’t yet read our article on “Understanding Pain”, we need to explain that pain can be either acute or chronic. Acute vs. Chronic Pain Acute pain is the sharp, temporary pain you experience right after an injury, like a sprained ankle. It typically lasts for a short time and fades as the injury heals. Chronic pain, on the other hand, sticks around for longer—usually defined as pain that lasts three to six months or more. This is when the […]
- [Importance of Nutrition in Musculoskeletal Health](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/lifestyle-measures-for-msk-health/): The Importance of Nutrition in Musculoskeletal Health In today’s fast-paced world, we often seek quick fixes for our health concerns. However lifestyle choices can have a marked impact on Musculoskeletal Health, because out bones, joints, and muscles don’t function in isolation. So let’s explore some of the key factors that can help you optimise your musculoskeletal well-being, starting with NUTRITION. The Role of Nutrition in Musculoskeletal Health Nutrition is central to the maintenance, growth, and repair of the body’s tissues. A balanced diet provides the necessary nutrients to fuel our systems, maintain bone density, and keep muscles strong. Sadly, in […]
- [Importance of Exercise & Movement in Musculoskeletal Health](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/lifestyle-to-optimise-musculoskeletal-health/): The Importance of Exercise & Movement in Musculoskeletal Health Our musculoskeletal system is built for movement, and without regular exercise, our muscles weaken and joints become stiff. To maintain strength, flexibility, and overall musculoskeletal health, movement is essential. Studies show that: Exercise benefits musculoskeletal health by: What Types of Exercise Are Best? While there are no strict rules, the key is to find exercises you enjoy. If you dislike running, then you’re less likely to make it a habit. So, consider alternatives like walking, dancing, or swimming. For extra motivation, joining an exercise class might help you stay consistent. A […]
- [Importance of Sleep in Musculoskeletal Health](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/importance-of-sleep-in-msk-health/): The Importance of Sleep for Musculoskeletal Health Sleep is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Studies show that sleep deprivation can worsen musculoskeletal pain, reduce physical function, and negatively affect psychological health. Poor sleep is also linked to systemic conditions such as Type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, and stroke, potentially leading to early mortality. How Sleep Affects Musculoskeletal Health Tips for Improving Sleep If you’re experiencing sleep issues, it’s worth trying natural methods to improve your sleep quality. A healthy sleep cycle includes four stages—one REM (Rapid Eye Movement) and three non-REM (nREM) stages. While sleep aids may […]
- [Importance of Mental Health & Stress Reduction in Musculoskeletal Health](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/importance-of-mental-health-in-msk-function/): Mental Health & Stress Reduction in Musculoskeletal Health Physical and mental health are deeply interconnected, and mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, and emotional trauma can significantly affect physical well-being. One of the most common mental health symptoms impacting musculoskeletal health is stress. While we are built to handle a certain amount of stress, prolonged or overwhelming stress can strain our coping mechanisms. How Stress Affects Musculoskeletal Health Chronic stress triggers the release of stress hormones like adrenaline, noradrenaline, and cortisol, which can have negative effects on the body, including: The Vicious Cycle: Mental Health and Physical Health Mental […]
- [Adam Rowland](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/adam-rowland/): Adam Rowland has been known to us in his capacity as a professional sports physio. He suffered catastrophic and progressive loss of health following AstraZeneca Covid vaccination. This is our message of support 
- [CQC](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/cqc/): Following CQC inspection in June 2019, the CQC have published their report and rated us as “Good” across all five domains

## Pages

- [Dr Rishi Dhand](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/dr-rishi-dhand/): Dr Rishi Dhand MBBS PGCert, MedEd, DipSEM, MRCGP, MFSEM (UK), PGCert MSKUS Musculoskeletal Medicine & Sports Doctor Dr Rishi Dhand is a Sports Medicine Doctor and has been the First Team Doctor at Leeds United F.C. since 2019. He specialises in musculoskeletal ultrasound and ultrasound-guided treatments for a range of conditions, including osteoarthritis, tendon injuries and other joint and soft-tissue problems. While he works extensively with elite athletes, Dr Dhand also treats patients from the general public, helping to manage both sports injuries and common degenerative conditions affecting joints, muscles, and tendons. He takes a personalised approach to care, aiming to […]
- [News](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/articles/): News latest updates…
- [Home](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/): Excellence in Musculoskeletal Medicine Highly qualified & experienced team Our independent practitioners have from 15 to more than 30 years of clinical experience in the field of musculoskeletal medicine. Diagnosis An accurate diagnosis underpins the success of any musculoskeletal treatment. It’s why a thorough assessment and experience counts. Wide range of treatment options Across the team, we have an extensive number treatment options appropriate to the diagnosis and tailored to your specific preferences. Barden House, 50 Park rd, Guiseley, Leeds LS20 8ar 01943 850 950 The musculoskeletal system is something we often take forgranted until it stops working properly and […]
- [Treatment](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/treatment/): what TREATMENT STRATEGIES can be offered? Following initial assessment and diagnosis, our independent practitioners can offer offer various treatments as appropriate, dependent upon the nature of your problem. Sometimes a plan involving a multidisciplinary approach (i.e. involving input from more than one healthcare professional) is more appropriate. Examples of some of the treatment options available is presented below: SPECIALIST MUSCULOSKELETAL MEDICINE AND SPORTS DOCTORS: Our independent doctors offer a wide range of treatments such as: PODIATRY: The most common treatment modalities offered by the podiatrist include: PHYSIOTHERAPY: The main physiotherapy approach revolves around: Need more information about specific treatments?
- [Further Information](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/further-information/): Have a Question? We cover some of the most frequently asked questions here. You’ll find information on our practitioners and on specific treatments elsewhere on our website. …And if there is something else you’d like to know which isn’t covered here, just get in touch with us to ask.
- [Conditions](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/conditions/): MUSCULOSKELETAL CONDITIONS We see a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions. The majority are not structural, but instead involve reactions referred to as somatic/segmental dysfunction. This means that there are alterations in: With associated disturbances of blood and lymphatics supply, nervous tissue and skin. We give some examples of the types of musculoskeletal conditions we see below: uNDERSTANDING WHAT YOUR CONDITION MEANS AND THE TREATMENT OPTIONS Knowing what your condition involves and being able to give informed consent to treatment relies on understanding. So explanation is everything and our team makes use of anatomic models and patient information leaflets in clinic […]
- [Doctor's Fees](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/mskdocfees/): Musculoskeletal Doctors: Self-Funding Fees Musculoskeletal medicine & Sports doctors Fees (Self funding patients) CONSULTATION FEES: All patients require a consultation before a procedure can be performed. Initial consultation (up to 50 min) £195.00 Follow up consultation (up to 30 min) £115.00 Extended follow up (40 min) £150.00 Telephone consultation (pro rata and charged at £45 per 10 minutes) From £45.00 Issue Private prescription or fit note Free if issued at the time of a charged for consultation, otherwise £15.00 PROCEDURE FEES: (Price quoted is for a single injection. Ultrasound guidance is used where clinically indicated. Where a procedure fee is marked […]
- [General Terms and Conditions](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/general-terms-and-conditions/): General Terms and Conditions Appointments: Our practitioners will always endeavour to see you at your allotted appointment time. However, we can’t always do this due to the complex and unpredictable nature of the musculoskeletal conditions that some of our patients present with. For this reason, we ask that you arrange your appointment in such a way as to allow a little leeway if clinics are running late. For appointments with our specialist doctors please allow up to 30 minutes leeway (although it is unusual for clinics to over-run by as much as this). You can help us enormously with time […]
- [Privacy Policy](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/privacy-policy/): Privacy Notice Data: Practitioners at the clinic operate independently of each other. The main data controller for your information will depend upon who you are seeing. The clinic is run by Dr Rahul Lakhera and Mrs Claire Lakhera (The Wharfedale Clinic LLP – Company Number OC457684, Registered in England, Registered Address: 12 Manor Court, Leeds, LS17 8JE). Where patients see an independent practitioner, the main data controller will be that practitioner (or their professional company). Reception staff have a limited role in collecting and amending your personal information (i.e. they can do so for the purposes of making an appointment or […]
- [Radial Shockwave](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/radial-shockwave/): Radial Shockwave Therapy Radial shockwave at the clinic is delivered using equipment manufactured by market leading Swiss company Storz Medical.   Radial shockwave (sometimes refereed to as extracorporeal shockwave) is an established evidence based treatment that involves passing high energy sound waves into damaged tissues. This increases blood flow to stimulate repair while reducing pain and allowing your body to re start its own natural healing process. It is a clinically proven, non-invasive treatment and is recommended by the UK NICE guidelines for conditions such as:- Our doctors use radial shockwave treatment as appropriate to treat all of the above conditions. In […]
- [Chaperone Requests](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/chaperone-requests/): Chaperone Requests Patients are welcome to bring along a family member or friend when they visit the clinic. There may also be times when a formal chaperone is also required. Our reception staff have received formal training to fulfil the role of a chaperone and they understand they must: ● Be an advocate for the patient● Reassure and support the patient● Act as an independent witness to the examination/procedure● Know how and to whom to report concerns. Both patients and healthcare practitioners can request a chaperone. Chaperone at the patient’s request: If you would like to have a formal chaperone […]
- [Injection treatments](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/injection-treatments-for-musculo/): Injection Treatments To relieve pain and help to restore function our doctors offer a wide range of injections using ultrasound guided techniques where clinically appropriate. These include: All Injection Procedures All injection procedures carry certain common risks. We discuss these here. Corticosteroid Injection (Sometimes referred to as steroid or cortisone) Hyaluronic Acid Injections (Sometimes referred to as viscosupplement injections Autologous Blood and Platelet Rich Plasma Injections A regenerative medicine technique Dextrose Prolotherapy Injections (A regenerative medicine technique for the treatment of ligament laxity) Caudal Epidural Steroid Injections A type of spinal corticosteroid injection Erector Spinae Plane Block (A type of […]
- [Podiatry](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/podiatry/): podiatry services are offered by BOB Longworth of Podiatry clinics Yorkshire ltd Podiatrists diagnose and treat a wide range of foot and lower limb issues that can affect health and mobility. These include: Treatment modalities can include minor podiatric procedures, manual therapy (manipulation of the foot and ankle joints), exercise and/or taping regimes and the provision of orthotic devices where appropriate. Footwear advice can also be given. Bob also offers radial shockwave therapy for plantar fasciitis and achilles tendinopathy If you would like to know more about the podiatry services offered by Bob and the wider podiatry team, please visit […]
- [Physiotherapy](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/physiotherapy/): physiotherapy services are provided by gemma james from physioaction Ltd Physiotherapists treat all types of musculoskeletal problems such as back and neck pain, joint and tendon problems, sports injuries, sprains and strains. They can also provide symptom relief in arthritis and other degenerative conditions. The main approach used revolves around manual techniques such as soft tissue mobilisation, myofascial release and joint manipulation, as well as a programme of specific and graduated rehabilitation exercises. Other modalities may  also be used where appropriate. Our large main physiotherapy treatment area is located on the first floor of the clinic. This provides extensive space […]
- [Specialist Doctors](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/specialist-doctors/): Medical services in Musculoskeletal and Sports Medicine are provided by  Dr Rahul Lakhera AND DR RISHI DHAND Musculoskeletal Medicine (sometimes abbreviated to MSK Medicine) is a specialised field which deals with the diagnosis and treatment of problems affecting bones and joints as well as muscles, tendons and ligaments. These issues can involve injury as well as disease processes. Medically trained, our doctors have substantive additional qualifications and training in their field of work. They are experts at diagnosis and perform a wide range of treatments such as: Injection Treatments: Both landmark and ultrasound guided as clinically indicated using: Injection techniques […]
- [Mrs Gemma James](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/mrs-gemma-james/): Mrs Gemma James BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy,  MCSP, MHCPC, APPI instructor, JEMS Certified Practitioner senior physiotherapist Gemma qualified from Leeds Metropolitan University in 2006 starting her career in trauma and orthopaedics at Leeds General Infirmary. She moved to Harrogate Hospital for her second job where she had a split role specialising in musculoskeletal and hand physiotherapy. Here, she gained vast experience in gym rehab, spinal, orthopaedics, amputee rehab and complex GP referrals as well as in the hand service treating a variety of hand injuries and working closely with the hand surgeons. She has spent the last few years working in private practice seeing a range of different […]
- [Mr Bob Longworth](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/mr-bob-longworth/): Mr Bob Longworth MSc, DPodM HCPC Registered Musculoskeletal Podiatrist Bob is a Musculoskeletal Podiatrist with over 30 years of experience working with Orthopaedic and sports injury cases. He qualified in 1986 from Salford University and received a Post-Graduate Masters degree in ‘Clinical Podiatric Biomechanics’ from Staffordshire University in 2004, a course he now teaches on. He also teaches Podiatric Biomechanics to third year students at the University of Malta and helped develop their Podopaediatric course, which addresses the treatment of children’s feet. He has undertaken post-graduate modules in Rheumatology and Pharmacology and has lectured at national and international conferences. In […]
- [Dr Rahul Lakhera](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/dr-rahul-lakhera/): Dr Rahul Lakhera BMed Sci, BMBS, MRCGP, DipSEM, PGCert MSKUS Musculoskeletal Medicine & Sports Doctor Rahul graduated in Medicine from the University of Nottingham in 2007, following which he moved to West Yorkshire for his junior doctor years. Rotations in rheumatology and A&E shaped his early interest in musculoskeletal medicine. After completing his GP training in 2012 he developed a career combining General Practice with jobs in elite sport. He has completed a Diploma in Sports and Exercise Medicine at The University of Bath and Post Graduate Certificate in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound from The University College of Osteopathy. He has also […]
- [Articles](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/articles-and-self-help/): Articles CLINIC ARTICLES In this section you’ll find our clinic blog articles and then we list some external websites which you may find helpful.  External websites which may be helpful: Arthritis www.versusarthritis.org   (a UK based charity that supports people with arthritis).  Back Pain www.backcare.org.uk (a charity that provides education and information to people and organizations affected by back pain, and who also fund research). www.spinal.co.uk (website for the spinal injury association – providing information and support for those living with a spinal cord injury) Fibromyalgia www.fibromyalgia-associationuk.org  (provides support and information for sufferers of fibromyalgia) Osteoporosis www.theros.org.uk (website of the Royal Osteoporosis Society – […]
- [Fees](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/fees/): Self-Funding Fees A guide to fees for self-funding patients subject to payment terms being met. If you are an insured patient, please contact us for further information since fees may differ and not all insurers cover every type of procedure. If you have health insurance, you would be advised to contact your insurer first to check that the practitioner you wish to see works with them. Some of our practitioners only work with a small number of insurers. General Terms and Conditions For details of our general terms and conditions regarding appointments and treatments, which includes payment terms and charges […]
- [Referrals](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/referrals/): Referrals SELF REFER If you’re a self funding patient then you don’t need a referral to see one of our practitioners. Just contact us directly to make an appointment* However if you’d like to use your medical insurance, then the terms of your policy may require a referral and you are advised to check. Since some of our practitioners only work with a limited number of insurers, please let us know at the time of booking if you’d like to use your insurance. REFER A PATIENT If you’re a practitioner with a patient you’d like to refer or if you […]
- [Contact](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/contact/): BOOK AN APPOINTMENT OR REQUEST FURTHER INFORMATION When asked, the majority of patients say that they prefer to make an appointment with a named practitioner. That’s why we’ve provided information about our independent practitioners and the services they offer. In doing so, we hope we can help you make an informed choice. So if you’d like to book an appointment or just want to know more, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help. Reception Office Hours The Reception Office is open between the hours of 9.00am to 5.00pm on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays and between 10.00am and 2.00pm […]
- [About](https://wharfedaleclinic.co.uk/about/): introducing the team Musculoskeletal medicine is multidisciplinary in nature and each healthcare professional offers a unique skillset. Our independent practitioners include specialist doctors in musculoskeletal and sports medicine, a podiatrist and a physiotherapist. Dr Rahul Lakhera is our lead clinician and registered manager and our small and friendly team is completed by Claire (Practice Manager) and Debbie (Clinic Receptionist). Rahul and Claire Lakhera (The Wharfedale Clinic LLP) manage the operational aspects of the clinic but practitioners operate independently of each other and provide their services through their own business entity. The Wharfedale Clinic LLP (Company number OC457684), Registered in England, Registered […]


[comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)