Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound in Chicago, IL
At Muscle & Joint Physical Therapy, we offer fast, accurate MSK ultrasound imaging in Chicago with short wait times and same-week availability. This radiation-free test provides real-time views of joints, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues to help diagnose injuries.
What Is Musculoskeletal (MSK) Ultrasound?
Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound is a real-time imaging test that uses sound waves to evaluate joints, tendons, ligaments, muscles, and soft tissues. It provides a clear, dynamic view of movement and inflammation without radiation, making it an excellent tool for diagnosing injuries and guiding treatment decisions.
What MSK Ultrasound Can Detect?
- Tendon tears or inflammation (tendinitis)
- Ligament sprains or partial tears
- Muscle strains or injuries
- Joint effusions or swelling
- Bursitis
- Soft-tissue masses or cysts
- Nerve entrapments or irritation
- Arthritis-related changes
MSK ultrasound helps pinpoint the exact source of pain or limited mobility, allowing for accurate diagnosis and faster treatment planning.
MSK Ultrasound Overview
MSK ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of joints, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues. A small handheld probe is moved over the area being examined, allowing your provider to watch tissues move and identify injuries or inflammation.
No. It is a painless, noninvasive procedure. Most patients feel only light pressure from the probe on the skin.
Most MSK ultrasound exams take 15–30 minutes, depending on the area being evaluated.
MSK ultrasound helps diagnose tendon tears, sprains, muscle injuries, bursitis, joint swelling, arthritis changes, soft-tissue masses, and nerve irritation.
No special preparation is needed. Wear comfortable clothing that allows access to the area being examined.
Yes. MSK ultrasound is completely safe, uses no radiation, and can be performed repeatedly if needed.
Why MSK Ultrasound Is Helpful
MSK ultrasound provides clear, real-time imaging that helps diagnose injuries quickly and accurately. Because it shows soft tissues in motion, it can reveal issues that may not appear on X-rays. The test is safe, painless, and radiation-free, making it a reliable option for evaluating joint, tendon, ligament, and muscle problems.
Benefits of MSK Ultrasound
- Real-time visualization of soft tissues
- Helps diagnose injuries during movement
- No radiation exposure
- Noninvasive and comfortable
- Useful for guiding treatment decisions
- Often faster and more affordable than other imaging options
Schedule Your Musculoskeletal Ultrasound in Chicago
Get fast, accurate imaging with short wait times and same-week availability. Our team provides clear diagnostic insights to help guide your treatment plan. Contact us today to schedule your musculoskeletal ultrasound.