What should you know about GE point-of-care ultrasound?

GE point-of-care ultrasound is a portable imaging assessment that helps a clinician examine soft tissues and guide decisions during your visit. The probe sends sound waves into the body and creates moving images on a nearby screen. Because the examination happens at the point of care, the clinician can compare the image with your symptoms, movement and physical findings straight away.

In orthopedics and physiotherapy, ultrasound can help assess tendons, muscles, ligaments, fluid-filled areas and the surface of some joints. The clinician may watch a structure while you move, contract a muscle or change position. This dynamic view can add useful information when a problem is related to movement rather than rest. Ultrasound does not show every part of the body equally well; bone blocks the view of deeper structures, and some findings may need another imaging test or clinical assessment.

The scan does not use ionising radiation. It is generally performed with gel on the skin and a handheld probe moved over the area being assessed. Pressure may be applied to locate a tender structure or see how tissue responds, so tell the clinician if the pressure is uncomfortable.

Wear clothing that allows easy access to the painful or injured area, and bring details of when the symptoms began, what movements affect them and any previous imaging reports. Most musculoskeletal scans need no special preparation. During the appointment, you may be asked to sit, lie down or move the affected area. The clinician may mark the skin, discuss the images and explain whether the findings fit your examination.

Point-of-care ultrasound can support a treatment discussion, but the image is only one part of the decision. If an injection is being considered, ask what the scan adds, what alternatives exist and how the result would change your plan. For related information, see [Point-of-Care Ultrasound](/technology/point-of-care-ultrasound/) and [PRP Injection](/treatments/non-surgical-orthopedics/prp-injection/).

Arrange a clinical assessment if pain, swelling, weakness or reduced movement is affecting daily activities or is not settling. Seek urgent help for a newly deformed limb, loss of sensation, a cold or pale hand or foot, severe pain after an injury, or inability to use the affected limb. A fever with a hot, red, swollen joint also needs prompt medical attention. Do not delay urgent care while waiting for an ultrasound appointment.

Ask which structure is being assessed and what the scan can or cannot show in your case. You can also ask whether movement during the scan is useful, whether another test is needed, and how the findings will affect physiotherapy, activity or treatment choices.