Accurate diagnosis is the foundation of effective orthopedic care. Musculoskeletal ultrasound is an advanced imaging technology that allows providers to evaluate muscles, tendons, ligaments, nerves, and joints in real time without radiation exposure. At Orthopaedic Associates of Wisconsin, diagnostic ultrasound helps our specialists identify injuries, assess tissue health, and make informed treatment recommendations for patients experiencing pain, weakness, instability, or limited mobility.
What Is Musculoskeletal Ultrasound?
Musculoskeletal ultrasound is a diagnostic imaging technique that uses sound waves to create detailed images of soft tissues and joints throughout the body.
Unlike traditional X-rays, which primarily show bones, ultrasound allows providers to visualize soft tissue structures such as tendons, ligaments, muscles, bursae, and nerves.
Benefits of Ultrasound Imaging
- Non-invasive
- No radiation exposure
- Real-time imaging
- Quick and convenient evaluation
- Dynamic assessment during movement
- Comfortable in-office procedure
How Does Ultrasound Diagnostics Work?
During an ultrasound examination, a handheld device called a transducer is moved over the area being evaluated. The transducer sends sound waves into the body and receives echoes that are converted into detailed images.
Dynamic Imaging
One unique advantage of ultrasound is the ability to assess structures while they are moving. This allows providers to evaluate tendons, muscles, ligaments, and joints during functional activities that may reproduce symptoms.
Conditions Evaluated with Ultrasound
Musculoskeletal ultrasound can help diagnose a wide range of orthopaedic and sports medicine conditions.
Tendon Injuries
Ultrasound is commonly used to evaluate:
Muscle Injuries
Diagnostic ultrasound can identify:
- Muscle strains
- Muscle tears
- Hematomas
- Soft tissue injuries
Ligament Injuries
Ultrasound may be used to assess:
- Sprains
- Partial ligament tears
- Joint instability
Nerve Conditions
Ultrasound can help evaluate nerve-related conditions such as:
Joint Conditions
Providers may use ultrasound to evaluate:
- Joint inflammation
- Arthritis
- Joint effusions
- Synovitis
Inflammation of fluid-filled sacs around joints can often be identified using ultrasound imaging.
Advantages of Ultrasound Compared to Other Imaging Studies
Real-Time Evaluation
Ultrasound allows providers to observe structures during movement and identify abnormalities that may not be visible on static imaging studies.
Immediate Results
In many cases, ultrasound findings can be reviewed during the appointment, allowing treatment discussions to begin right away.
No Radiation Exposure
Ultrasound uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it a safe option for many patients.
Cost-Effective Imaging
For certain conditions, ultrasound may provide valuable diagnostic information without the need for more advanced imaging studies.
What to Expect During Your Ultrasound Examination
Before the Exam
Most ultrasound examinations require little to no preparation.
During the Exam
A small amount of gel is applied to the skin, and the transducer is moved over the area of concern to capture images.
After the Exam
Patients can typically resume normal activities immediately following the examination.
Ultrasound-Guided Procedures
In addition to diagnostic imaging, ultrasound may be used to improve the accuracy of certain procedures.
Ultrasound-Guided Injections
Real-time visualization allows providers to precisely guide injections into joints, tendons, bursae, or around nerves.
Ultrasound-Guided Hydrodisection
Ultrasound guidance helps ensure accurate placement of fluid during nerve hydrodissection procedures.
