Ultrasound Scanning at Feet First Podiatry Clinic
Musculoskeletal ultrasound scanning is a safe, real-time imaging tool used to assess soft tissues such as tendons, ligaments, muscles and bursae. It allows us to visualise what is happening beneath the skin and confirm a diagnosis quickly, without the need for referral or radiation exposure.
At Feet First Podiatry Clinic, ultrasound scanning is used to support clinical assessment, guide treatment decisions and, where appropriate, assist with precision-guided injections.
What Ultrasound Scanning is Used For
Ultrasound scanning is commonly used to assess:
- Achilles tendinopathy and tendon thickening
- Insertional Achilles pain
- Plantar fasciitis and plantar fascia thickening
- Bursitis around the heel, ankle or forefoot
- Tendon tears or partial tears
- Soft tissue inflammation
- Mortonâs neuroma and intermetatarsal bursitis
- Ligament injury
- Unexplained swelling or lumps
It is particularly useful when symptoms are persistent, worsening or unclear.
Why Ultrasound Scanning is Helpful
Ultrasound allows us to:
- Confirm or refine a diagnosis
- Distinguish between similar conditions
- Assess severity and tissue health
- Identify inflammation, degeneration or tearing
- Guide treatment selection
- Monitor progress over time
- Avoid unnecessary treatment
This leads to more accurate and targeted care.
Ultrasound-Guided Treatment
Ultrasound scanning may also be used to guide treatment, including:
- Corticosteroid injections
- Accurate placement of injections into joints, bursae or around tendons
- Confirmation of needle position for safety and precision
This improves effectiveness and reduces risk compared to landmark-guided techniques.
What to Expect
- Explanation of the scan and what we are looking for
- Gel applied to the skin
- Ultrasound probe moved over the area
- Real-time images reviewed during the appointment
- Explanation of findings
- Discussion of next steps and treatment options
The scan is painless and usually takes only a few minutes.
How Ultrasound Fits Into Your Care
Ultrasound scanning may be used as part of:
- MSK assessment
- Diagnosis of foot, ankle or knee pain
- Sports injury assessment
- Shockwave therapy planning
- Injection therapy
- Monitoring recovery
It is always used when it adds clear clinical value.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Is ultrasound safe?
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation.
Do I need a referral?
No. Scanning can be performed as part of your appointment if booked in.
Will I get the results straight away?
Yes. Findings are discussed during the appointment.
Is ultrasound better than MRI?
They provide different information. Ultrasound is excellent for soft tissue and dynamic assessment.
Does ultrasound scanning hurt?
No. The scan itself is painless.