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Ultrasound Imaging
We utilize diagnostic ultrasound in our Seattle clinic to visualize
soft tissue problems that cannot be seen on x-ray.
What is Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging?
Ultrasound imaging is the use of sound waves to visualize the body. Just
as expectant parents can see their child in the mother's womb with the
use of ultrasound imaging, we can visualize the structures of the foot
and ankle.
Ultrasound is 100% safe – there is no radiation involved. An ultrasound
image is very effective way to examine the musculoskeletal system of the
body to detect problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and
soft tissue. Ultrasound images occur in real time, so they can often
show movement, function and anatomy, as well as enable our doctors to
diagnose a variety of conditions and assess damage after an injury.
What can be diagnosed with ultrasound?
Ultrasound images can be useful in diagnosing the following conditions
in the foot. You can click on each item for details on how ultrasound is
used for the particular problem.
What procedures can the ultrasound be used for?
One of the biggest benefits of the ultrasound is to help guide us when
giving injections. We first numb your foot so that there is no pain.
Then we can use the ultrasound image to see exactly where we need to
inject to help your particular problem. Ultrasound guided injections
allow for such precise placement of medication that a lower dose of the
medication is often used. Some areas where we use guided injections
include:
- Morton’s neuroma guided injection
- Plantar fasciitis guided injection
- Plantar fasciitis dry needling
How should I prepare for the procedure?
No preparation is necessary. Just wear comfortable, loose fitting
clothing for your ultrasound exam.
How is the procedure performed?
First we position you on the examination chair. Then a clear gel is
applied to the area that will be examined.. We then press the transducer
against the skin and move it back and forth to image the area while
reviewing the images on a monitor and capturing pictures as required.
What are the benefits versus the risks?
Benefits:
- Ultrasound scanning is noninvasive and painless
- Ultrasound is much less expensive than MRI, CT scan or bone
scans
Unlike x-rays, ultrasound imaging uses no radiation
- Ultrasound provides real-time imaging, making it a great tool
for guiding injections or aspirations of fluid in joints or
elsewhere. This allows our doctors to place injections more
precisely in order to achieve better outcomes and avoid potential
complications.
- Unlike the magnetic field of MRI units, ultrasound is not
affected by cardiac pacemakers or implants within the body.
- Ultrasound may actually have advantages over MRI in seeing
tendon structure, which is better appreciated by ultrasound than MRI
at a fraction of the cost.
Risks: For diagnostic ultrasound there are no known harmful
effects on humans.
What are the limitations of ultrasound imaging?
Ultrasound does not penetrate bone well, so you can only see the outer
surface of bony structures and not what lies within.
All pages on this website © 2005-2010
Douglas Hale, DPM & Lawrence Huppin, DPM
Foot and Ankle Center of Washington, Seattle
The material provided on this web site is for informative purposes only.
If you need specific medical advice, please contact the office for an appointment.
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