Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound
Services
Looking inside the body to find out what’s wrong
Ultrasound imaging is a quick and accurate way of assessing common musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions like tendon and ligament injuries.
If you have a complicated problem that needs a differential diagnosis, or think you may need surgery and would like a detailed report of your injury or condition to support a referral, then we can help.
Diagnostic MSK ultrasound is typically used to identify:
- Tendon tears or tendonitis of the rotator cuff in the shoulder, Achilles tendon in the ankle, patellar tendonitis at the knee, tennis and golfer’s elbow and many other tendons throughout the body
- Ligament sprains or tears
- Muscle tears or fluid collections
- Poor control of abdominal muscles leading to back pain/women’s health issues
- Inflammation or fluid (effusions) within bursae and joints
- Nerve entrapments such as carpal tunnel syndrome
- Ganglions
- Foreign bodies in the soft tissues (such as splinters or glass)
- Early changes of rheumatoid arthritis
What is Diagnostic MSK ultrasound?
Ultrasound imaging produces pictures of the inside of the body, and is also known as ultrasound scanning or sonography. It is safe and painless procedure that utilises high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the muscles, tenons, ligaments, joints, nerves and soft tissues throughout the body.
It has even been shown to pick up stress fractures that are too small to spot on an X-ray.
By taking and referring to the scan, your physiotherapist can create a targeted rehabilitation plan for your condition, and can take ongoing images of your injury to monitor your recovery. They can also keep your GP or consultant in the loop about your diagnosis and progress.
How to book
Diagnostic Ultrasound is currently available in our two Dorset clinics. Please give us a ring on 01202 749514 or fill out our contact form and we’ll call you back.
Find Your Physio
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need an ultrasound?
Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound can help further diagnose various injuries and chronic conditions, including tendonitis, bursitis, carpal tunnel syndrome, rotator cuff tears, joint problems and much more. If you are unsure if you require an ultrasound scan, please call Reception on 01202 749 514 and we will arrange for you to speak with one of our physiotherapists.
Can you scan anything?
Diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound scanning is effective for scanning soft tissue structures such as tendons and ligaments, as well as joint surfaces. In some cases other types of scans would be more beneficial and your physiotherapist will be able to discuss this with you to make sure you have the right management for your particular injury.
How long will an ultrasound appointment take?
A diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound appointment is 60 minutes, comprising of scanning and an overview of the physiotherapists findings.
Does a diagnostic ultrasound hurt?
No, an ultrasound scan is completely safe and pain free.
Will you tell me what you have found on the scan?
Yes we will give you your results. Your physiotherapist will explain their findings on the day and show you the images to support this. You will then be sent a report directly, detailing the findings and if needed, the images can be shared with you too.
What will you do if I have an injury seen on the scan?
Our sonographers are also very experienced physiotherapists. This means they have the ability to then guide you through any rehabilitation that may be required, depending on the scan findings. If we feel it is something that requires more specialist input, our team can guide you to the right team or person. We can forward any letters or images to assist you with this.
Is an ultrasound scan expensive?
When being scanned by a physiotherapist you have the advantage of having the information all in one place rather than waiting for letters to GPs and then trying to be seen.
Your physiotherapist can scan, diagnose, treat and advise, all within the same place and often in the same consultation. A 60 minute diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound appointment where you can get immediate answers and a management programme with one of our sonography trained physiotherapists is £200.00, working out as one hour very well spent!
How do you prepare for an ultrasound?
Please wear loose, comfortable clothing so the area that is being scanned is accessible to your physiotherapist.
Are there any side effects from ultrasound scanning?
No, unlike some other types of medical scans, there are no side effects of ultrasound scanning and it is a safe imaging technique.
Will you inform my GP of my ultrasound results?
Information can be shared with your GP so they have a record of any findings.
Can you perform ultrasound scans in my home?
Yes we can. If for some reason you have trouble getting to the clinic we do have a portable scanner that can travel to your location. And you get the same advantage of having a specialist physiotherapy sonographer, studying your images and advising on the the best plan for recovery and rehabilitation.
A 60 minute diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound appointment in the comfort of your own home with a sonographer trained physiotherapist is £250.00.
Can you perform other scans such as pregnancy or vascular scans?
Our sonographers are specialised in diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) scanning. Other types of ultrasound scanning, such as vascular scanning, require different specialist training and our physiotherapists do not offer this service.