Joint ultrasound

knee ultrasound · shoulder ultrasound · joint ultrasound

The doctor uses ultrasound to look at the joint, ligaments, tendons, and muscles. It is safe and uses no radiation.

For joint pain, swelling, or injury, or if a torn ligament or fluid in the joint is suspected.

⏱ Duration: usually 15 to 30 minutes

Be sure to tell your doctor

When and how you got hurt
Exactly where it hurts and with which movements
If you have had surgery on this joint

How to prepare

Preparation. No special preparation is needed. You can eat and drink as usual.
Clothing. Wear something comfortable so the joint is easy to uncover. For a knee scan, wear shorts or loose pants.
Skin. Do not put cream or ointment on that area on the day of the scan.

What to bring

Your referral
Past images and reports: X-ray, MRI, ultrasound

How it goes

You uncover the joint and sit or lie down
The doctor puts on cool gel
The probe is moved over the skin around the joint
You will be asked to bend, straighten, or turn your arm or leg
Often the other joint is checked too, for comparison

What you'll feel

The gel is cool
If the joint is sore, pressure from the probe may be unpleasant. Tell the doctor

Afterwards

The gel is wiped off, and you can go back to your day right away
You usually get the report right away

Common questions

Which is better for a joint, ultrasound or MRI?

Ultrasound shows ligaments, tendons, and fluid well, and it can be done while you move. MRI shows deeper parts better, like the meniscus and cartilage. The doctor decides.

Can ultrasound show bones?

Only their surface. For bones and fractures, you need an X-ray or CT scan.