
Digital X-rays & Diagnostic Ultrasound in Thousand Oaks
Finding internal foot injuries and confirming a diagnosis often requires diagnostic imaging. Performance Foot & Ankle is equipped with a full in-office diagnostic facility featuring state-of-the-art digital x-ray and ultrasound technology, so patients in Thousand Oaks, CA can get answers during their visit instead of waiting for an outside imaging appointment.
Request an AppointmentWhy Your Podiatrist May Order Imaging
Your podiatrist may recommend an imaging test for many reasons, including:
- Assessing joint damage caused by arthritis
- Checking for signs of infection or other bone and tissue diseases
- Locating foreign objects such as splinters or glass lodged in the foot
- Identifying fractures and other injuries
- Diagnosing the cause of unexplained foot pain
- Providing image guidance during injections and procedures
- Planning foot and ankle surgery
Digital X-rays
Digital x-rays provide clear images of the bones and joints of the foot and ankle. They allow our podiatrists to evaluate fractures, bone spurs, joint alignment, and arthritis quickly and accurately.
Benefits of digital x-ray technology include:
- Immediate results that can be reviewed during your appointment
- Images that can be enlarged and adjusted for a more thorough examination
- Secure digital storage for easy access by your care team
- Lower radiation exposure compared with traditional film x-rays
Foot and Ankle Ultrasound
Ultrasound is a radiation-free imaging method that uses sound waves to create real-time images of the body’s internal structures. While many people know ultrasound for its use in pregnancy, it is also a valuable tool for diagnosing soft tissue problems in the feet and ankles.
Foot and ankle ultrasound is often used to diagnose:
- Soft tissue masses and tumors
- Morton’s neuroma
- Plantar fasciitis and plantar fascia tears
- Achilles tendon injuries and tendinitis
- Stress fractures
- Arthritis and joint inflammation
- Foreign bodies
- Muscle tears and ligament sprains
What to Expect During an Ultrasound
Ultrasound exams are safe, painless, and noninvasive. A gel is applied to the area being examined, and a small transducer wand is moved over the skin. The wand sends sound waves into the body that bounce back and are converted into images on a monitor, allowing your podiatrist to see tendons, ligaments, nerves, and soft tissues in real time.
Faster Diagnosis, Faster Treatment
Having imaging available on site means many patients receive a diagnosis and begin treatment in the same visit. Call (805) 273-1415 to schedule an appointment with Performance Foot & Ankle.
Frequently Asked Questions About X-rays and Ultrasound
Do you offer x-rays in your office?
Yes. Our office has digital x-ray equipment on site, so most patients can have imaging performed and reviewed during the same appointment.
Are digital x-rays safe?
Yes. Digital x-rays use less radiation than traditional film x-rays, and foot and ankle x-rays involve a very small radiation dose.
Is a foot ultrasound painful?
No. Ultrasound is painless and noninvasive. A gel is applied to the skin and a small wand is moved over the area to create images.
What is the difference between an x-ray and an ultrasound?
X-rays are best for viewing bones and joints, while ultrasound is ideal for soft tissues such as tendons, ligaments, nerves, and masses. Ultrasound also uses no radiation.
Can ultrasound detect a stress fracture?
Yes. Ultrasound can sometimes identify stress fractures that are not yet visible on x-rays, making it a helpful tool for early diagnosis.
Will I get my imaging results the same day?
In most cases, yes. Your podiatrist can review digital x-ray and ultrasound images with you during your appointment.
Does insurance cover foot x-rays and ultrasound?
Medically necessary imaging is typically covered by PPO insurance plans and Medicare. Our team can help verify your benefits.
