An Ultrasound Scan in London is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of structures inside the body. It can help clinicians assess muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and other soft tissues, investigate pain or swelling, and support treatment planning. Unlike X-rays and CT scans, diagnostic ultrasound does not use ionising radiation.
At Krida, ultrasound forms part of a wider musculoskeletal assessment, allowing the consultant to combine clinical examination with diagnostic imaging when appropriate. Krida provides private ultrasound services in London, including appointments at its Harley Street and Fitzrovia locations.
What Is an Ultrasound Scan?
An ultrasound scan uses a handheld device called a transducer or probe. The probe sends high-frequency sound waves into the body. As these waves interact with different tissues, returning echoes are processed by the ultrasound machine to produce images on a screen.
For musculoskeletal problems, ultrasound can provide dynamic views of structures such as tendons, muscles, ligaments, joints and some superficial nerves. The clinician can sometimes assess an area while it is moving, which can provide information that a static image may not show.
Ultrasound may also be used to help guide certain procedures, including injections, by allowing the clinician to visualise the relevant anatomy during treatment.
Why Might You Need an Ultrasound Scan in London?
An ultrasound may be recommended when symptoms suggest a problem involving soft tissue or when further assessment is needed following a clinical examination.
Common reasons for a musculoskeletal ultrasound include:
- Persistent joint or soft-tissue pain
- Tendon problems or tendinopathy
- Suspected muscle injuries
- Bursitis and inflammation
- Certain ligament injuries
- Cysts or fluid-filled areas
- Shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand problems
- Hip, knee, ankle or foot conditions
- Sports-related injuries
- Assessment before an ultrasound-guided procedure
Krida's musculoskeletal services cover conditions including shoulder bursitis, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, Achilles tendinopathy, muscle or ligament tears and other joint and soft-tissue conditions.
Importantly, ultrasound is not automatically the right test for every condition. Depending on your symptoms and examination findings, your clinician may recommend another investigation, such as an MRI or X-ray, instead or in addition to ultrasound.
What Happens During an Ultrasound Scan?
For an external ultrasound, you will normally be asked to expose the area being examined while maintaining appropriate privacy. You may sit or lie on an examination couch.
The clinician generally follows these steps:
- Clinical assessment: The area and your symptoms are reviewed.
- Positioning: You are placed in a suitable position for imaging.
- Ultrasound gel: A small amount of gel is applied to the skin.
- Scanning: The probe is moved over the area being assessed.
- Dynamic assessment: You may be asked to move the affected body part.
- Image review: Measurements and relevant images can be recorded.
- Discussion: Your findings and possible next steps can be explained where appropriate.
The NHS states that an ultrasound appointment can take around 10–45 minutes, depending on the type of examination.
Does an Ultrasound Scan Hurt?
Most external ultrasound examinations are painless. You may feel the probe moving over your skin and some pressure may be applied to obtain clearer images.
If the area being examined is already tender or inflamed, that pressure can sometimes feel uncomfortable. Tell the clinician if you experience significant discomfort so they can adjust the examination where possible.
There is no exposure to ionising radiation during a standard diagnostic ultrasound scan.
How Should You Prepare?
Preparation depends on the type of ultrasound you are having.
For many musculoskeletal ultrasound examinations, extensive preparation is not required. You should follow the specific instructions provided when your appointment is arranged.
Some other types of ultrasound may require particular preparation, such as drinking water before certain pelvic examinations or avoiding food for a specified period before some abdominal scans.
For a musculoskeletal appointment, it can be useful to bring information about previous investigations, relevant medical correspondence and a list of medications if requested.
A simple preparation checklist
- Wear clothing that allows reasonable access to the affected area.
- Bring relevant previous scan or medical reports.
- Follow any preparation instructions provided by the clinic.
- Tell the clinician about significant allergies or relevant medical information.
- Ask questions if you are unsure about what will happen during the examination.
Ultrasound vs MRI: What's the Difference?
Both ultrasound and MRI can provide useful diagnostic information, but they work differently and are suited to different clinical questions.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
The choice should be based on your symptoms, examination and the information your clinician needs. One test does not universally replace the other.
What Can an Ultrasound Scan Detect?
An ultrasound can help identify changes in soft tissues and superficial structures. Depending on the body area, it may help assess tendon abnormalities, muscle injuries, fluid collections, bursae, cysts and some joint-related findings.
For example, a clinician investigating shoulder pain may use ultrasound to assess structures around the rotator cuff. For ankle or heel symptoms, ultrasound may help examine tendons and other soft tissues.
However, ultrasound findings need to be interpreted alongside your symptoms and physical examination. A scan is one part of the diagnostic process rather than a complete diagnosis on its own.
What Happens After the Scan?
After an ultrasound, the clinician reviews the images and considers them alongside your clinical assessment. At Krida, the diagnostic ultrasound can form part of an appointment that includes examination, treatment planning and, where appropriate, an ultrasound-guided procedure.
The next step may simply be monitoring and rehabilitation, while some patients may be advised to consider further investigation or treatment.
Krida explains that its private ultrasound service can involve consultation, examination, diagnostic ultrasound and treatment planning within the same clinical pathway, depending on the condition.
Why Choose a Private Ultrasound Scan in London?
A private assessment may be useful for people looking for a specialist musculoskeletal evaluation in a dedicated clinical setting.
When considering an Ultrasound Scan in London, look for:
- Appropriate clinical expertise
- Clear explanation of the examination
- Suitable diagnostic equipment
- A thorough clinical assessment
- Transparent information about fees and appointments
- A clear plan for what happens after the scan
Krida describes its service as focused on musculoskeletal conditions and sports injuries, using advanced ultrasound technology as part of its diagnostic and treatment approach.
1. What is an ultrasound scan used for?
It can be used to investigate symptoms and assess internal structures such as muscles, tendons, joints, organs and other soft tissues.
2. Is an ultrasound scan painful?
Most external ultrasound scans are painless, although pressure over a painful area can sometimes cause temporary discomfort.
3. How long does an ultrasound scan take?
The duration depends on the type of scan. Many examinations take between around 10 and 45 minutes.
4. Does ultrasound use radiation?
No. Diagnostic ultrasound uses sound waves rather than ionising radiation.
5. Can ultrasound diagnose tendon injuries?
Ultrasound can help assess many tendon problems, particularly superficial tendons, but the findings should be considered alongside a clinical assessment.
6. Do I need to prepare for an ultrasound?
Preparation depends on the type of examination. Your clinic should provide specific instructions before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an ultrasound better than an MRI?
Neither is universally better. The appropriate test depends on the symptoms, body area and clinical question.
Can I return to normal activities after an ultrasound?
For a standard external diagnostic ultrasound, there is generally no recovery period. If an injection or another procedure is performed at the same appointment, different aftercare may apply.
Can ultrasound be used to guide injections?
Yes. Ultrasound can provide real-time visualisation during certain injections and procedures.
Where can I have an ultrasound in London?
Krida offers private ultrasound services at London locations including Harley Street and Fitzrovia.
Will I receive a report?
The arrangements for receiving results or reports depend on the service and examination. Krida states that its ultrasound service includes a report following the consultation, diagnostic scan and procedure where applicable.
Do I need a GP referral?
Referral requirements can vary depending on the type of service. Krida states that a GP referral is not necessary for its ultrasound-guided steroid/cortisone injection service. Contact the clinic to confirm requirements for your specific ultrasound appointment.