Sonosite point-of-care ultrasound: what to know

Point-of-care ultrasound uses a handheld probe and sound waves to create images during a clinical visit. In orthopaedics, it can help assess tendons, muscles, ligaments, fluid collections, superficial nerves, and movement while a joint is used. The clinician applies gel, moves the probe over the skin, and compares the image with your symptoms and physical findings. A Sonosite device is equipment used to obtain these images; the value comes from the trained person performing and interpreting the examination. Ultrasound has limits for deep structures, some bone problems, and areas blocked by air or dense tissue.

Wear clothing that allows access to the body region being examined and tell the clinician where symptoms start, what movements trigger them, and whether you have had surgery or an injury. The scan is usually performed on the skin and does not use ionising radiation. You may be asked to move the joint or contract a muscle so the clinician can observe it dynamically. If an injection is planned, ultrasound may help guide needle placement; PRP injection is a separate treatment with its own suitability assessment, preparation, and aftercare. Ask when and how the findings will affect your plan.

An ultrasound appointment should not delay urgent assessment for sudden loss of strength, a deformed limb, severe injury, rapidly increasing swelling, fever with a hot joint, or a cold or discoloured extremity. Seek review if symptoms continue despite a reassuring scan, because some conditions require examination, X-ray, MRI, blood tests, or specialist assessment. Imaging is one part of diagnosis rather than a diagnosis by itself.

What structure are you assessing, and what can this scan show or miss? Who will interpret the images? Do I need another test? If an ultrasound-guided injection is suggested, what are its purpose, alternatives, and aftercare instructions?