Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound
Fast, Accurate & Without Referral
Get clear answers for joint, muscle, and soft tissue concerns with professional musculoskeletal ultrasound scans. Our experienced sonographers provide safe, reliable imaging in a calm clinical setting, with quick results and no GP referral needed.
Not sure which scan is right for you?
If you’re unsure which ultrasound you need, our clinical team can help. For just £50 you’ll receive expert guidance on the right scan for your symptoms, a no-obligation referral if imaging is required, and peace of mind knowing you’re on the right track.
What is a Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound Scan?
Why Do I Need a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound?
If you’re experiencing pain, swelling, stiffness, limited movement, or tenderness in a muscle or joint, a musculoskeletal ultrasound can help identify the cause. It allows healthcare professionals to look closely at the structures that support your body’s movement, giving insight into symptoms that may be affecting your daily activities.
What Does a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Show?
Musculoskeletal ultrasound provides clear images of many soft tissue structures, including:
– Muscles and tendons
– Ligaments and connective tissues
– Joints and joint capsules
– Surrounding soft tissue anatomy
It can also assess the movement of muscles and tendons during motion, which helps clinicians understand how the area functions in real life.
What Conditions Can a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Detect?
A musculoskeletal ultrasound can identify a wide range of conditions affecting the muscles, joints, tendons, ligaments, and surrounding soft tissues. It is commonly used to investigate muscle or tendon injuries, ligament damage, joint inflammation, fluid build-up, bursitis, soft tissue swellings, and early degenerative changes such as arthritis, helping clinicians understand the cause of pain, stiffness, or restricted movement.
How Does a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Work?
During an MSK ultrasound, a trained sonographer applies a small amount of gel to the area being examined and gently moves a handheld probe over the skin. The probe emits sound waves that reflect off internal tissues, creating real-time images on a screen. This allows the clinician to assess both the structure and movement of muscles and joints while the scan is taking place.
Is a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Safe?
Yes, musculoskeletal ultrasound is a very safe imaging technique. It does not use radiation and is non-invasive, making it suitable for repeated use if needed. Most people experience little to no discomfort, although mild pressure may be felt if the area being scanned is sensitive.
How to Prepare for a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
In most cases, no special preparation is required for an MSK ultrasound. You may be asked to wear loose, comfortable clothing or to expose the area being examined so the scan can be carried out easily. Any specific instructions will be provided to you when you book your appointment.
What to Expect on the Day of Your Scan
When you arrive, the sonographer will explain the procedure and answer any questions you may have. You may be asked to change into a gown, after which gel will be applied to your skin. The scan usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes, and you may be asked to move the joint or limb slightly so its function can be assessed. Once the scan is complete, you can return to your normal activities straight away.
Benefits of a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Musculoskeletal ultrasound provides detailed, real-time images that help clinicians assess injuries and conditions quickly and accurately. It is widely used because it is safe, cost-effective, and capable of showing how tissues move during activity, making it particularly useful for diagnosing sports injuries and joint problems.
Are There Any Risks With a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound?
MSK ultrasound is considered very low risk. Side effects are rare and usually limited to mild discomfort from pressure over tender areas or temporary skin irritation from the gel. Serious complications are extremely uncommon.
Getting Your Results
After your scan, the images will be reviewed by a qualified clinician or radiologist, who will prepare a detailed report. Results are usually available within a short timeframe and will be explained clearly, with guidance provided on any recommended next steps or further investigations if needed.
Table of contents
- What is a musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound scan?
- Why do I need a musculoskeletal ultrasound?
- What does a musculoskeletal ultrasound show?
- What conditions can a musculoskeletal ultrasound detect?
- How does a musculoskeletal ultrasound work?
- Is a musculoskeletal ultrasound safe?
- How to prepare for a musculoskeletal ultrasound
- What to expect on the day of your scan
- Benefits of a musculoskeletal ultrasound
- Are there any risks with a musculoskeletal ultrasound?
- Getting your results
Additional Diagnostic Scanning Services
Alongside musculoskeletal ultrasound, we offer a range of private diagnostic scans to support accurate assessment, early detection, and peace of mind. All scans are delivered by experienced clinicians using modern imaging technology.
Wondering if a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound can help?
Our experienced clinical team provides quick, personalised consultations to help assess your symptoms and determine whether an MSK ultrasound is suitable. There’s no pressure to book a scan, free cancellation is available, and you’ll receive clear advice designed around your needs.
