Ultrasound & Ultrasound Guided Injection

A diagnostic ultrasound scan is a safe, non-invasive imaging procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of internal structures such as muscles, tendons, joints, and organs. It is one of the most widely used diagnostic tools in modern medicine.

Ultrasound can detect a wide range of conditions including tendon tears, muscle injuries, joint inflammation, cysts, soft tissue masses, and problems with internal organs. It is commonly used to investigate pain, swelling, and restricted movement.

Yes, ultrasound scanning is completely safe. It uses sound waves rather than radiation, making it suitable for all patients including those who are pregnant.

Most diagnostic ultrasound scans take between 15 and 30 minutes depending on the area being examined.

Yes, a referral is required to ensure you are being sent for the correct scan, that a clinician is available to review and explain your results, and that the right follow-up or treatment pathway is in place if anything is found.

Preparation depends on the area being scanned. For some scans you may be asked to drink water beforehand, while for musculoskeletal scans no special preparation is usually needed. You will be advised at the time of booking.

Results are typically reviewed promptly and communicated back to your referring clinician, who will discuss the findings and any recommended next steps with you.

Ultrasound can be used to scan most areas of the body including the shoulder, knee, hip, ankle, wrist, elbow, abdomen, and soft tissue areas throughout the body.

No, an ultrasound scan is painless. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is gently moved over the area being examined. You may feel a little bit of pressure in the area being scanned

Unlike X-ray, ultrasound does not use radiation. Unlike MRI, it provides real-time dynamic imaging, meaning movement can be assessed during the scan. It is also more accessible and cost-effective than MRI.

An ultrasound-guided steroid injection is a minimally invasive procedure where real-time ultrasound imaging is used to accurately guide a needle to a precise location, such as a joint, bursa, or tendon sheath, before delivering a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.

Steroid injections are commonly used to treat conditions such as shoulder impingement, rotator cuff tendinopathy, knee osteoarthritis, hip bursitis, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, and many other musculoskeletal conditions causing pain and inflammation.

Ultrasound guidance ensures the needle is placed accurately in the correct location, improving the effectiveness of the injection and reducing the risk of complications compared to injections performed without imaging guidance.

Most patients begin to notice an improvement within 3 to 7 days of their injection, although this can vary depending on the individual and the condition being treated.

Pain relief can last anywhere from several weeks to several months. Many patients experience significant long-term improvement, particularly when combined with physiotherapy or rehabilitation.

It is generally recommended that steroid injections are limited to a small number per year in the same area. Your clinician will advise on the most appropriate treatment plan based on your individual needs.

A local anaesthetic is usually included in the injection to minimise discomfort. Most patients tolerate the procedure very well and report only mild discomfort during and after the injection.

Side effects are uncommon but can include temporary soreness at the injection site, a short-term increase in blood sugar levels in diabetic patients, and very rarely, infection or skin discolouration. Your clinician will discuss any risks with you beforehand.

If a local anaesthetic is used you may experience temporary numbness or weakness in the area, so it is advisable to have someone with you and drive you home. Some insurance companies may not cover you if you drive after having a steroid injection before the anaesthetic has worn off.

Yes, a referral is required to ensure you are being directed to the correct treatment, that your scan and injection are carried out by an appropriately qualified clinician, and that the right follow-up care is in place following your procedure.