Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound Scan

What conditions can be diagnosed on a Ultrasound Scan?

Shoulder

• Rotator Cuff Tear

• Shoulder impingement

• AC joint

• Tendonitis

Knee

• Quadricep Tendonitis

• Patella Tendonitis

• Medial Ligament sprain

• Lateral ligament sprain

• Bursitis

• Arthritis

About MSK Ultrasound Scanning

An ultrasound is a type of scan that uses sound waves to produce images of structures inside your body. It’s used to detect changes in appearance, size and outline of muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and fluid.

An ultrasound scanner looks similar to a computer. The hand held scanner has a transducer that sends out sound waves. A transducer is a device that changes sound to electricity, like a two-way microphone. The sound waves bounce off the structures inside your body and are then picked up again by the transducer. The transducer is linked to a computer which creates real-time images from these reflected sound waves. The images are displayed on the screen and are constantly updated so the scan can show movement.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound has come a long way over the past 30 years due to improved image quality. Consequently, musculoskeletal ultrasound has been rapidly growing in popularity. This is due to increasing evidence‐based literature stating that the diagnostic accuracy of musculoskeletal sonography is comparable to that of MRI.

Frequently Asked Questions

is ULTRASOUND SCANNING SAFE?

Ultrasound scanning has been used for over 20 years and has an excellent safety record. It is based on non-ionising radiation meaning there are no known hazardous effects associated with multiple ultrasound scans.

I Have a pacemaker (metal implants) is it safe for me to have an ultrasound scan?

Ultrasound is safe, painless and does not use radiation. pacemakers and jewellery do not affect the process and are safe to wear throughout.

HOW LONG WILL MY SCAN LAST?

Typically most Ultrasound scans will last between 15 - 45 minutes.

WHAT WILL HAPPEN DURING MY SCAN?

We will ensure you are sitting/laid comfortably on the treatment couch before the scan begins. Water based ultrasound gel will be placed on the area being scanned and a small probe will be placed on your skin and moved around to obtain images of the area of your body being examined. You may be given instructions or asked to move the area to obtain more images.

how and when will i get my results?

Results are instant, your clinician will review your scan images and discuss them with you during and after the scan.

How much does an ultrasound scan cost?

Ultrasound scans at LB Physiotherapy cost £98 for your initial scan or £85 for a follow up scan.