Musculoskeletal ultrasound is an advanced imaging technique that uses sound waves to help your doctor visualize an area of the body and diagnose the cause of pain. This imaging method also can be used to guide injections for pain, especially in locations that are difficult to access.
How is this imaging technique used to diagnose orthopedic problems?
Musculoskeletal ultrasound is performed using a portable machine in the examination room. As a small probe is passed over the area being examined, the doctor can see that area on a monitor attached to the machine. This device employs the same type of technology that is used to visualize the fetus in women who are pregnant.
When might it be used to help with diagnosis of an orthopedic problem?
This imaging technique is useful in diagnosing a wide variety of problems in muscles, ligaments,
nerves and tendons.
Some of the conditions easily diagnosed include:
- Rotator Cuff Tears
- Impingement
- Tennis Elbow
- Ganglion Cysts
- MCL/PCL Tears of the Knee
- Patellar Tendonitis
- Cubital Tunnel
- Ligament Tears of the Ankle
- Bursitis of the Hip
What are the advantages of ultrasound over MRI scans?
There are a number of advantages in using ultrasound to detect tears and other problems in muscles,
ligaments, nerves, tendons and other soft tissue:
- No radiation
- Cost savings
- Instant feedback
- Real-time imaging
- Side-to-side comparisons
- Accurate injections
Additional Resources
- Watch this YouTube video on understanding musculoskeletal ultrasound technology.
- Here’s a YouTube video on how musculoskeletal ultrasound can enhance quality of care.
- This YouTube video talks about how musculoskeletal ultrasound can help reduce overall health care costs.
How can I schedule an appointment?
If you would like to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (865) 316-3650.