Before treating people with musculoskeletal (MSK) pain, it helps to remember one simple phrase: PREPARE ME NoW.
I’ve adapted these 11 Best Practice Principles for Musculoskeletal Care (Lin et al., Br J Sports Med, 2020) into something easy to recall; a quick reference that captures the essence of good MSK practice.
But more than a checklist, PREPARE ME NoW represents a mindset shift.
It reminds us to move from asking “What’s the diagnosis?” to “What matters most to this person?”
Because every effective consultation starts with preparation; not just in gathering information, but in how we think.
PREPARE ME NoW
- P – Patient-centred care: Build a partnership; tailor treatments and goals to what matters most to the individual.
- R – Red-flag screening: Always exclude serious or urgent pathology.
- E – Examine: Conduct a structured subjective and objective assessment.
- P – Psychosocial factors: Explore beliefs, emotions, fears and social context.
- A – Activity & exercise: Promote movement and function early.
- R – Reassure & educate: Give clear information, reduce fear and support self-management.
- E – Evaluate progress: Track outcomes and adjust management as needed.
- M – Manual therapy (as an adjunct): Use hands-on care to facilitate, not replace, active recovery.
- E – Evidence-based / non-surgical first: Use conservative care first unless red flags demand otherwise.
- N – No unnecessary imaging: Only order imaging when it changes management.
- W – Work: Support continuation or return to work.
Beyond just muscles and joints
Excellent MSK care isn’t just about what we do – it’s about how we think.
It’s about partnership, prevention, movement, and meaning.
These principles apply across roles and settings – whether you’re in advanced practice, private care, or community rehab.
They help us stay grounded in what matters most; enabling people to move well, think differently about their pain, and live meaningful lives.
📚 Adapted from Lin et al. (2020), Br J Sports Med, 54(2):79–86
✍️ By Dr Massimo Barcellona
🏥 Consultant Physiotherapist, SHP Health | King’s College Hospital