Joint and soft tissue USG
Joint and soft tissue ultrasound is one of the most accurate and safest methods for examining the musculoskeletal system. It is a painless, harmless, and highly informative procedure that allows doctors to assess the condition of joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, and other soft tissues in real time. Joint USG is a quick examination that requires no invasive procedures but provides essential information about musculoskeletal health.
Dr. Nataļja Čirkova
At “Republikas laukuma klīnika,” experienced specialists perform joint and soft tissue ultrasound in a professional and comfortable environment, ensuring precise diagnostics and an individual approach for each patient.
How does soft tissue ultrasound work?
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves that exceed the human hearing range. These waves are directed into the body, where they reflect off different tissues to create an image. Soft tissues – muscles, tendons, ligaments – have different sound conductivity, allowing them to be clearly distinguished in the image.
Joint USG allows evaluation of:
- Joint structure and synovial fluid
- Tendon and ligament condition
- Muscle injuries or inflammation
- Soft tissue swelling or fluid accumulation
- Nerve compression or inflammation
During the procedure, the doctor moves the probe over the area being examined – such as the knee, shoulder, or elbow – obtaining images from various angles. This enables precise assessment of tissue condition and identification of even minor pathologies.
Which joints can be examined?
Joint ultrasound is suitable for examining various body areas, including:
- Shoulder joints (rotator cuff injuries, bursitis)
- Elbow joints (epicondylitis, synovitis)
- Wrist and finger joints (tenosynovitis, arthritis)
- Knee joints (meniscus injuries, synovial fluid accumulation)
- Ankle joints (ligament tears, tendinitis)
- Hip joints (bursitis, muscle inflammation)
Soft tissue ultrasound is especially useful for sports injuries, chronic pain, inflammatory conditions, and post-operative monitoring.
Procedure duration and process
Joint USG usually takes about 15 minutes, depending on the area and required detail. The procedure is completely painless and requires no special preparation. The doctor may ask the patient to change position or perform movements to better visualize specific tissues.
Joint ultrasound is suitable for both acute and chronic complaints. It allows doctors to assess tissue response to movement, which is not possible with other imaging methods like X-ray or MRI.
Applications in various conditions
Soft tissue and joint ultrasound is an essential method for diagnosing musculoskeletal disorders. It helps doctors accurately identify pathologies and choose the most appropriate treatment.
Arthritis
Joint USG allows evaluation of synovial fluid, signs of inflammation, and structural changes. It is especially useful in rheumatoid arthritis, where regular monitoring is needed.
Tendinitis and Tenosynovitis
Soft tissue ultrasound helps identify tendon inflammation, thickening, or fluid accumulation around them. It is effective for evaluating both acute and chronic pain.
Bursitis
Inflammation of bursae often causes pain and swelling. Joint USG precisely determines fluid volume and inflammation location.
Ligament and Muscle Tears
In case of trauma, soft tissue ultrasound assesses the extent, location, and healing process of the injury.
Ganglions and Cysts
USG is suitable for distinguishing cysts from solid masses and evaluating their size and structure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does a joint ultrasound take?
Standard joint ultrasound usually takes 15 minutes. If a more detailed examination or multiple joints are assessed, it may take longer.
Is soft tissue ultrasound painful?
No, it is completely painless. It is a non-invasive method that causes no discomfort and requires no anesthesia.
Is preparation needed before joint USG?
Usually, no special preparation is needed. However, it is recommended to wear comfortable clothing and inform the doctor about previous injuries, surgeries, or complaints.
Can joint USG replace X-ray or MRI?
Joint ultrasound is an excellent complement to other imaging methods. It allows real-time evaluation of soft tissues, which X-rays cannot provide. MRI is suitable for deeper tissues, while USG is more effective for superficial structures.
At “Republikas laukuma klīnika,” joint and soft tissue ultrasound is performed by an experienced specialist who focuses on musculoskeletal diagnostics.
