Musculoskeletal ultrasound is an advanced diagnostic procedure used for the evaluation and treatment of issues related to the muscular and skeletal systems. It is a quick and painless examination that allows precise targeting of the patient's painful area. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, ultrasound does not involve radiation, making it a safe and suitable procedure for all patients, including children and pregnant women.
Musculoskeletal ultrasound is well-suited for diagnosing a wide range of pathologies in the muscular and skeletal systems, including problems causing pain and limited mobility, joint-related issues (such as degenerative changes and arthritis), sports injuries, orthopedic problems, inflammatory and rheumatological diseases, as well as soft tissue masses.
Here are some examples of problems that can be diagnosed with ultrasound:
1. Rotator cuff tears in the shoulder.
2. Inflammation in the elbow ("tennis elbow").
3. Carpal tunnel syndrome.
4. Trigger finger.
5. Hip bursitis.
6. Cysts (e.g., Baker's cyst behind the knee).
7. Plantar fasciitis.
8. Morton's neuroma in the foot.
9. Tendon and ligament tears.
An important advantage of ultrasound is its ability to perform dynamic assessments, allowing the diagnosis of pathologies that may be challenging to identify using other imaging methods such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRI. Examples of diagnoses made through dynamic ultrasound assessments include:
1. Subacromial impingement of the shoulder.
2. Ulnar nerve instability at the elbow.
3. Subluxation of the peroneal tendons at the ankle.
Ultrasound imaging in the musculoskeletal field offers significant contributions to the treatment of many patients, enabling accurate diagnoses and personalized care.