See Beneath the Surface

When pain or injury isn't improving as expected, understanding exactly what's happening inside the body can make all the difference. Diagnostic musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound scanning provides a safe, real-time assessment of muscles, tendons, ligaments, bursae, joints, and other soft tissue structures to help guide diagnosis and treatment.

At Midland Physiotherapy, diagnostic ultrasound can be incorporated into your physiotherapy assessment where clinically appropriate, or booked as a standalone service if you simply want greater clarity about your injury.

What is Diagnostic Ultrasound?

Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of soft tissues beneath the skin. Unlike X-rays, it does not use radiation and allows us to assess structures while they are moving, helping identify problems that may not be apparent during a physical examination alone.

It can provide valuable information to support an accurate diagnosis and ensure the most appropriate treatment plan is recommended.

Diagnostic Physiotherapy Assessment with Ultrasound

This combines a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment with a diagnostic ultrasound scan where clinically indicated.

Your appointment includes:

• A detailed discussion about your symptoms and medical history
• A comprehensive physical examination
• Diagnostic ultrasound assessment (where appropriate)
• Explanation of the findings in plain English
• A personalised treatment and rehabilitation plan
• Advice on the most appropriate next steps

This option is ideal if you're looking for both a diagnosis and a clear plan to help you recover.

Standalone Diagnostic Ultrasound Scan

If you've been advised to have an ultrasound scan, would like reassurance about an injury, or simply want greater understanding of what's causing your symptoms, you can book a standalone diagnostic ultrasound appointment.

This includes:

• A focused ultrasound examination
• Explanation of the findings
• A written summary of the scan findings (if requested)
• Advice regarding appropriate next steps

Should your scan identify a condition requiring physiotherapy or onward referral, we'll discuss the available options with you.

What Can Diagnostic Ultrasound Assess?

Diagnostic ultrasound is commonly used to assess:

• Rotator cuff injuries
• Shoulder pain
• Tennis elbow & Golfer's elbow
• Tendon injuries
• Muscle tears
• Ligament injuries
• Bursitis
• Achilles tendon pain
• Plantar fasciopathy
• Patellar tendinopathy
• Hamstring injuries
• Calf muscle injuries
• Wrist and hand tendon problems
• Soft tissue lumps where clinically appropriate
• Joint effusions (fluid)
• Sports injuries
• Disc bulges/herniations
• Circulation (blood vessels)

Benefits of Diagnostic Ultrasound Scans

• Real-time imaging while you move
• No radiation exposure
• Non-invasive and painless
• Immediate results during your appointment
• Helps improve diagnostic confidence
• Supports more targeted treatment planning
• May reduce the need for unnecessary investigations
• Can monitor healing and rehabilitation progress

Book Your Appointment

Book online or contact us using the details below to schedule an appointment at a location most convenient for you.

Call: 0121 517 1595

Email: info@midlandphysio.co.uk

Read Our Frequently Asked Questions