Which specialist performs a musculoskeletal ultrasound?

The clinician applies gel and moves a handheld probe over the skin to view muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and nearby soft tissues. The area can be examined while you move, which may help relate a finding to a painful action. Some imaging centres use a radiologist, while others use a sports medicine physician with specific ultrasound training.

Most musculoskeletal ultrasound visits need little preparation. Wear clothing that allows access to the area and bring the referral or earlier reports if requested. Describe the exact movement that causes pain, because the clinician may assess the tissue at rest and during that movement. Ask when and how the findings will be communicated.

Seek urgent assessment for a limb that becomes cold, pale or blue, sudden weakness, rapidly increasing swelling, severe pain after trauma, or an open wound with fever. Imaging should not postpone treatment of these warning signs.

Ask which structure is being assessed, whether movement will be included, whether ultrasound can answer the clinical question, and which clinician will combine the result with your examination.