A Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging scan used to assess muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and other soft tissues throughout the body. It uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images, helping diagnose the cause of pain, swelling, injury or reduced movement. Unlike X-rays, ultrasound does not use radiation and allows the sonographer to assess structures while they are moving.

Your healthcare professional may recommend an MSK ultrasound if you have persistent joint or muscle pain, swelling, reduced movement, a sports injury, tendon pain or an unexplained soft tissue lump. It is also commonly used to investigate ongoing symptoms that have not improved with rest or treatment and can help guide the next steps in your care.

In many cases, no referral is required and you can self-refer for a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound at ScanMe. We also welcome referrals from GPs, physiotherapists and other healthcare professionals. If you're unsure whether this is the right scan for your symptoms, our team will be happy to advise.

No special preparation is usually required before a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound. We recommend wearing loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the area being examined. If you have any previous scan reports, X-rays, MRI results or referral letters, you are welcome to bring them to your appointment.

During the scan, one of our experienced sonographers will apply a small amount of ultrasound gel to the skin before gently moving a handheld probe over the area being examined. Depending on the body part, you may be asked to move the joint or muscle during the examination, allowing the structures to be assessed in real time. The scan is comfortable, non-invasive and typically takes between 20 and 30 minutes.

No. A Musculoskeletal Ultrasound is not usually painful. You may feel slight pressure from the ultrasound probe, particularly if the area being examined is already tender or inflamed, but the scan itself is safe, gentle and does not use radiation.

Musculoskeletal ultrasound and MRI each have their advantages. Ultrasound is often the preferred first-line investigation for assessing muscles, tendons, ligaments and other superficial soft tissues because it provides real-time, dynamic imaging while the affected area is moving. In some cases, an MRI may be recommended if further assessment of deeper structures is required.

Most Musculoskeletal Ultrasound appointments take approximately 20 to 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined and the complexity of the assessment. Your sonographer will ensure you have plenty of time to discuss your symptoms before and during the scan.