Diagnostics Ultrasound

If you’ve been experiencing lingering joint or muscle pain, the first thing you want to know is what’s causing it. At Manhattan Physical Therapy in Midtown Manhattan, skilled physical therapist Erica Cole, PT, DPT, and her team utilize this quick and safe technology to diagnose issues in athletes or anyone who needs accurate answers for targeted treatments. For more information, call the office in New York City or use online booking today.

What is a diagnostics ultrasound?

A diagnostics ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images of your internal structures. The ability to visualize these structures helps providers diagnose issues and direct effective treatment.

For physical therapists, using ultrasound technology enables them to complete more thorough assessments and provide patients with speedier diagnoses. It’s also noninvasive and radiation-free.

I’ve been having nagging pain. Do I need a diagnostics ultrasound?

All people are susceptible to lingering and worsening issues as they go about their lives, and athletes may particularly notice a sense of imbalance or reduced performance. 

Your Manhattan Physical Therapy provider may use a diagnostics ultrasound to diagnose a variety of physical complaints. One of the most common upper-extremity injuries it detects is a rotator cuff tear, but it also identifies other issues, such as:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Tendonitis
• Bursitis
• Joint problems
• Masses, such as tumors or cysts
• Ruptured tendons

These issues may present as sharp or aching pain in your joints or muscles, swelling, or weakness. If you have arthritis or muscle pain (especially with inflammation, but even without), contact Manhattan Physical Therapy.

The low risk and minimal discomfort of a diagnostics ultrasound make it suitable for most individuals.

What can I expect when I go in for a diagnostics ultrasound?

You sit or lie down on a comfortable surface, depending on what area your provider needs to scan. Your provider applies a layer of gel to the transducer to help it transmit and receive the sound waves, and then they place the device on your skin.

At your provider’s request, you may need to move the affected area as they slide the device over your skin; this gives them a clearer picture of your symptom’s root cause. You can expect the ultrasound process to take 30-60 minutes, but it may be faster, depending on your issue.

A diagnostics ultrasound can take a look at what is happening inside your body to guide effective treatment, so don’t delay in contacting Manhattan Physical Therapy if you have questions that the technology can help answer. 

The process is quick and simple, and the information gathered is vital for your recovery, so reach out by phone or online today.