Diagnostic Ultrasound Service

Yes, ultrasound has no known risks. It is non-invasive and does not have any radiation. It is the same type of scan used during antenatal (during pregnancy) assessments.

During an ultrasound scan, we gently place a small device called a probe on the part of your body that needs to be checked. A bit of gel is used to help the probe move smoothly over your skin. The probe sends out sound waves, which bounce off your muscles, bones, and other tissues. These returning sound waves are picked up by the probe and turned into pictures by a special computer. This helps us see what’s happening inside your body in real time, so we can better understand your muscles, joints, and tendons. 

Within MSK, ultrasound is commonly used to assess the following structures: 

• Joints – osteoarthritis, synovitis, inflammation or swelling 

• Ligaments – sprains and ruptures 

• Tendons – Tendinosis/tendinopathy (inflammation or degeneration), tenosynovitis (inflammation), tears or ruptures 

• Muscles – strains, tears or haematomas 

• Nerves – inflammation, swelling or entrapment 

• Bursa – swelling, thickening or inflammation 

Here are some common conditions that diagnostic ultrasound can be used for: 

• Ankle sprains 

• Tennis or Golfer’s Elbow 

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome 

• Jumper’s knee (Patella tendinopathy) 

• Baker’s Cysts 

• Achilles tendinopathy 

• Gluteal Tendinopathy (also known as bursitis or trochanteric pain syndrome) 

Within our MSK service, we do not offer diagnostic US scans for non-musculoskeletal conditions, this includes but is not limited to: 

• Lumps or bumps (unexplained masses) 

• Vascular concerns (DVTs) 

• Testicular or pelvic health issues 

• Spinal conditions 

• Face/Neck conditions 

*Referrals for non-MSK conditions may require input from a medical or surgical specialist. In some cases, urgent medical assessment may be necessary. This service does not provide diagnostic evaluation or treatment for non-MSK conditions.