Ultrasound Scans
Musculoskeletal ultrasound scans are a diagnostic tool that creates real-time images of muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints. Unlike X-rays, ultrasound does not use radiation and is non-invasive.
This type of ultrasound is commonly used to assess musculoskeletal injuries, such as tears, inflammation, or degeneration in tissues. It can help diagnose and view the extent of conditions like tendinitis, bursitis, muscle strains, ligament injuries, and joint abnormalities.
The real-time imaging also makes it a valuable tool for monitoring progress and making treatment decisions.
We use Ultrasound scans for shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee and ankle injuries.
Musculoskeletal ultrasound scans are not suitable for diagnosing neck, back, or abdominal issues. If you’re experiencing pain in these areas, we recommend booking a standard physiotherapy assessment. If your physiotherapist determines that a scan is necessary, they will refer you for the most appropriate imaging.
Ultrasound FAQ
What Is Ultrasound?
An Ultrasound Scan allows us to view live images of the inside of the body, similar to pregnancy scans. Diagnostic Ultrasound technology has improved significantly and is now considered superior to MRI scans for diagnosing many tendon, muscle, ligament and joint injuries.
Do I Need A Referral?
No you do not need a referral with us. Within the NHS you do require a referral and there is currently a 6 month waiting list, with us you can self book to have your scan, get your results, and start treatment all within 45 minutes!
How Do I Know If I Need A Scan?
Most muscle, tendon and ligament injuries would benefit from a scan. While we can normally provide an accurate diagnosis without one, a scan is a great way to confirm our diagnosis and to give you peace of mind that we will now be doing the correct treatment for your injury.
Scans are also a very good way to determine the severity of the injury and allow us to provide a more accurate expected recovery time.
I've Been Recommended A Scan By Another Professional, Can I Have It With You?
Yes of course. This happens a lot, not many physios/osteopaths/chiropractors etc can perform Ultrasound Scans so we often get clients booking a scan with us after being recommended by another professional.
We’ll perform the Ultrasound Scan as part of a full physio assessment.
Can Ultrasound Scans Be Used To Review My Progress?
Yes. We often use Ultrasound Scans to review the injury site and ensure it is healing as expected. We’re able to measure a tear on the screen and compare it to your previous images to make sure it is reducing in size.
Is Ultrasound Safe?
Ultrasound Scans are generally considered safe to use with very low risks. Ultrasound works by using soundwaves as opposed to radiation which is used in scans such as X-Rays.
Is There Anything You Won't Scan?
We will not scan the abdomen, spine, hernias or suspicious lumps or bumps.
What Do I Need To Bring?
It is advisable to bring a pair of shorts if the problem is related to your leg or lower back. For ladies we recommend you wear a vest top if your complaint relates to your upper body.
If you have any medical letters relating to your current injury, or past similar injuries, please bring these. Please feel free to bring a chaperone if you wish.
Are You Registered With My Health Insurance?
We are registered with all major health insurance companies including Bupa, Aviva, Axa, Cigna, Simply Health, Vitality, Healix and Aetna.
While Ultrasound Scans alone are not covered by insurance companies, we perform our scans as part of a Physiotherapy Assessment which will be covered. All insurance policies do vary slightly so if in doubt please contact your insurance.
I Don't Have Health Insurance, Can I Pay On The Day?
Yes you can. We accept cards or cash, and you don’t pay until the end of your session. No payment will be made when booking your appointment today.