Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of tissues and structures inside the body. It is a safe and non-invasive imaging technique that provides a detailed look at soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and nerves. 

The procedure is relatively simple: a small amount of gel is applied to the skin over the area of concern, and a transducer (a small hand-held device) is moved over the region. The ultrasound waves bounce off structures inside the body and are translated into images that are displayed on a screen.

Benefits of Diagnostic Ultrasound for the Foot and Ankle
Diagnostic ultrasound offers several key benefits for evaluating foot and ankle conditions. As a non-invasive imaging technique, ultrasound is painless and requires no needles or injections. It is a good option for those who may not be good candidates for MRI.

One of the standout features of diagnostic ultrasound is its ability to produce real-time images, enabling clinicians to observe how muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints move.
The other benefits of diagnostic ultrasound include:

• Cost-Effective Ultrasound is generally more affordable than other imaging techniques such as MRI or CT scans. For patients who are uninsured or have high out-of-pocket costs, ultrasound provides a less expensive alternative while still offering accurate diagnostic results.
• Portability Ultrasound machines are portable and can be used in the office. This makes it easy to perform diagnostic tests on-site without the need for referrals to specialized imaging centers.
• No Radiation Exposure Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound does not involve radiation, making it a safer option for repeated imaging over time. This is especially important for patients who require ongoing monitoring or those who are pregnant or young children.

Foot and Ankle Conditions Diagnosed with Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a valuable tool for diagnosing a variety of foot and ankle conditions, such as:

1. Plantar fasciitis, fasciosis or partial tears
Inflammation around the fascia can be easily viewed on ultrasound and can also be used to measure the fascia which allows the provider to tell if the fascia is normal thickness and just inflamed, thickened (which can often mean a longer recovery), or thick and inflamed which may indicate a tear.

2. Tendonitis or tendon tear
The Achilles, posterior tibial and peroneal tendons are most commonly assessed with ultrasound. Conditions such as tendinitis (inflammation), tendinosis (degeneration), or tears can be visualized on ultrasound. The ability to view the tendon in motion can also help identify issues related to biomechanics.

3. Sprains and Strains
Ligament sprains or muscle strains in the foot and ankle can be difficult to diagnose without imaging. Ultrasound helps identify tears, swelling, and changes in the soft tissues, offering a quick and accurate diagnosis.

4. Bursitis
Bursae are small fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joints. Ultrasound can detect fluid accumulation in the bursa and help differentiate between bursitis and other types of soft tissue injury.

5. Neuroma
A neuroma is a benign growth of nerve tissue, often between the third and fourth toes (Morton’s), that can cause pain, tingling, numbness or the sensation that something is in the foot. Ultrasound is effective in diagnosing neuromas and can also be used to guide injections for treatment.

6. Cysts
Cysts are non-cancerous sacs filled with a gelatinous or fluid-like substance. Ganglion cysts are the most common type of cyst found in the foot and ankle. Ultrasound can easily identify these cysts and also used for needle guidance for cyst aspiration or subsequent steroid injection.

7. Foreign Bodies
Ultrasound can also be used to locate foreign bodies such as splinters or debris that may be embedded in the soft tissues of the foot and ankle. This helps guide the removal process without the need for more invasive techniques.

8. Fractures
While X-rays remain the gold standard for diagnosing bone fractures, ultrasound can sometimes be used to detect certain types of fractures, such as stress fractures.

At Performance Foot & Ankle, we rely on ultrasound for its ability to quickly produce real-time images that are painless and radiation-free for the patient. Please call our office to schedule your diagnostic ultrasound today!