Diagnostic utrasound
What is it?
MSK diagnostic ultrasound is a safe, non-invasive imaging technique used to assess muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints in real time. It works by using a handheld probe that emits high-frequency sound waves. These sound waves bounce off tissues inside the body and return to the probe, creating live, detailed images on screen.
Unlike X-rays or MRIs, ultrasound allows dynamic assessment—meaning we can see how structures move and respond during the scan, giving us a more functional view of your injury or condition.
At RD Clinics, this powerful diagnostic tool is combined with a clinical consultation from an experienced osteopath or physiotherapist.
This ensures you get fast, accurate answers and a personalised treatment plan to help you recover efficiently.
What does it help diagnose?
We commonly diagnose:
- Shoulder pain, including rotator cuff tears, tendinitis, and bursitis
- Elbow conditions such as golfer’s elbow and tennis elbow
- Wrist and hand issues like carpal tunnel syndrome and tendon problems
- Hip injuries including bursitis, muscle strains, and tendon pathologies
- Knee pain, including patellar tendinopathy and IT band syndrome
- Ankle injuries, such as ligament sprains and instability
- Achilles tendinopathy and inflammation
- Plantar fasciitis and heel pain
- Muscle strains or tears throughout the body
What happens at ultrasound?
We’ve designed our diagnostic ultrasound process to be as smooth, comfortable, and informative as possible.
Before the scan
There’s very little preparation needed. Simply wear comfortable clothing, and be prepared to expose the area being scanned—this might mean wearing a pair of shorts or a sports bra, depending on the body part. A layer of ultrasound gel will be applied to the skin, which may feel a little cold but is completely harmless.
During the scan
Your scan will last around 20–30 minutes, depending on whether it’s part of a broader assessment or a standalone diagnostic session. One of our experienced clinicians will use a handheld probe to assess the area in real-time. This non-invasive process is completely pain-free, though you may feel light pressure from the probe.
After the scan
There are no after-effects from the scan, and you can continue your day as normal. In most cases, you’ll receive your results within 24 hours after the session. If your images need further review, we’ll send a detailed report within a few days.
What can you do once you receive your results?
We recommend that any patients who would like help understanding their scan results or are seeking a treatment plan for recovery book a follow-up with the osteopath or physiotherapist who carried out your initial consultation. This helps avoid the need for another full assessment and allows us to begin treatment right away.
If your original therapist isn’t available, don’t worry—your full consultation notes are securely stored, so you can confidently continue your care with any member of our expert team.
To make ongoing treatment as accessible as possible, we offer excellent 3–5 session package deals across our osteopathy, physiotherapy, and massage therapy services.
You can find all pricing and package details at the link below:
Introducing.. Ultra sound at RD clinics!
🩺 Struggling With an Injury?
Skip the GP Wait – Book a Diagnostic Ultrasound Today!
Fast, accurate diagnosis for a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions – including:
- Shoulder & rotator cuff injuries
- Tennis or golfer’s elbow
- Wrist & hand issues (e.g. carpal tunnel)
- Hip, knee, or ankle pain
- Achilles & plantar fascia problems
🔍 What’s Included:
✔️ Diagnostic ultrasound for 1 body area
✔️ 20-minute consultation with an expert Osteopath or Physiotherapist
✔️ Personalised aftercare & treatment advice
All from just £185
👉 Limited appointments available – enquire now!