Ultrasound imaging uses sound waves to produce 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.

This procedure requires little to no special preparation. Leave jewelry at home and wear loose, comfortable clothing.

What is Ultrasound Imaging of the Musculoskeletal System?

Ultrasound is safe and painless. It produces pictures of the inside of the body using sound waves. Ultrasound imaging is also called ultrasound scanning or sonography. It uses a small probe called a transducer and gel placed directly on the skin. High-frequency sound waves travel from the probe through the gel into the body. The probe collects the sounds that bounce back. A computer uses those sound waves to create an image. 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 body’s internal organs. They can also show blood flowing through blood vessels.

Ultrasound imaging is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.

Ultrasound images of the musculoskeletal system provide pictures of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves and soft tissues throughout the body.

The ultrasound exams are painless, fast and easily tolerated.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound examination is usually completed within 15 to 30 minutes but may occasionally take longer.

Its biggest advantage is that it is a dynamic study, this means that you can imitate the movements that cause the pain and track the structures that cause it. There is no better way to diagnose than doing the movement and seeing the injury in real time.

Currently Ultrasound (Ultrasound) is used to perform procedures known as minimally invasive regenerative orthopedics such as the correct placement of Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) or stem cells. This gives the doctor certainty that these biological products or medications are placed exactly where they should be.

The ultrasound of the musculoskeletal system and soft tissues allows to keep a diary of the evolution of the injury and its recovery.