Diagnostic Musculoskeletal Ultrasound

Diagnostic musculoskeletal ultrasound is a fast, noninvasive imaging tool used to evaluate injuries and pain involving muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints, and nerves. At Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine, ultrasound helps provide real-time answers and allows for focused treatment planning during the same visit.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of soft tissues and joints without radiation or contrast dye. Unlike MRI, ultrasound allows providers to evaluate structures dynamically while the patient moves, helping pinpoint the exact source of pain or dysfunction.

A focused examination of one specific area or structure causing symptoms. Common uses include:

• Tendon injuries
• Muscle strains or tears
• Bursitis
• Joint swelling
• Ligament sprains
• Nerve irritation

Best for:

• Localized pain
• Single injury concerns
• Quick targeted evaluation

A comprehensive evaluation of an entire joint or anatomical region. This exam may include:

• Multiple tendons and ligaments
• Joint spaces
• Muscles and surrounding soft tissues
• Dynamic movement assessment
• Side-to-side comparison when needed

Best for:

• Complex injuries
• Persistent pain
• Multiple symptoms
• Comprehensive sports medicine evaluation

• Real-time imaging during movement
• No radiation exposure
• Fast and comfortable examination
• Immediate results
• Cost-effective alternative to MRI in many cases
• Excellent for sports medicine injuries
• Portable and performed in-office

• Rotator cuff injuries
• Tennis elbow
• Achilles tendon injuries
• Muscle strains and tears
• Knee swelling and joint pain
• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Ligament sprains
• Bursitis
• Sports-related injuries

Ultrasound can also improve the accuracy of:

• Joint injections
• Tendon sheath injections
• Bursa injections
• Aspirations and fluid drainage
• Sports medicine procedures

Using live imaging allows precise placement of treatment directly into the targeted structure.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound helps provide efficient, accurate, and patient-focused care. The ability to combine physical examination findings with immediate imaging allows for quicker diagnosis, more precise treatment planning, and improved sports medicine care.