What is An Musculoskeletal Ultrasound?

• Ultrasound imaging is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
• Ultrasound exams do not use radiation (as used in x-rays). Because images are captured in real-time, they can show the structure and movement of the bodys internal organs. They can also show blood flowing through blood vessels.
• Musculoskeletal Ultrasound produces pictures of muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves and joints throughout the body. It is used to help diagnose sprains, strains, tears, trapped nerves, arthritis and other musculoskeletal conditions. Ultrasound is safe, noninvasive, and does not use ionizing radiation.

Why do I need Musculoskeletal Ultrasound?

Musculoskeletal Ultrasound images are typically used to help diagnose:
• Tendon tears or tendinitis of the rotator cuff in the shoulder, Achilles tendon in the ankle and many other tendons throughout the body.
• Muscle tears, masses or fluid collections.
• Ligament sprains or tears.
• Inflammation or fluid (effusions) within the bursa and joints.
• Early changes of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Nerve entrapments such as carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Benign and malignant soft tissue tumors.
• Ganglion cysts.
• Hernias.
• Foreign bodies in the soft tissues (such as splinters or glass).
• Dislocations of the hip in infants.
• Fluid in a painful hip joint in children.
• Neck muscle abnormalities in infants with torticollis (neck twisting).
• Soft tissue masses (lumps/bumps) in children

Any preparation needed?

• Wear loose clothing to your ultrasound appointment. You may be asked to remove jewelry during your ultrasound, so its a good idea to leave any valuables at home.