Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound has well-established advantages, able to investigate very small structures with high resolution and a quick and real-time dynamic evaluation with the possibility of contralateral comparison. -Thieme Medical Publishers

Worldwide, more healthcare professionals are utilizing MSK ultrasound for examining conditions within joints, bones, and muscles.  MSK (musculoskeletal) sonography enables medical practitioners to diagnose intricate, surrounding structures including tendons and nerves in real-time.

Using MSK ultrasound is an effective way to view the musculoskeletal anatomy and could be the best solution for developing a treatment plan between physicians and patients

What is MSK Ultrasound?

An MSK ultrasound is a real-time, full-spectrum display of inflammation, fibrosis, calcification, fiber failure, and complete rupture of musculoskeletal anatomy.

It is a complete panoramic view of the current physiologic state that provides the necessary pre-treatment imaging and diagnostic information for specific treatment site selection.

The goal of using a musculoskeletal ultrasound is to pinpoint the exact target where care and treatment are necessary.

How does MSK Ultrasound work?

Quality, real-time imaging of musculoskeletal structures are produced as a hand-held device called a transducer is used to send inaudible, high-frequency sound waves throughout the body.

By moving the transducer the professional performing the ultrasound can view relevant anatomy at different angles, taking still pictures as needed. -Risa H. Kent, MD

As the transducer is guided across the skin it creates imaging as the frequencies bounce from joints, bones, and muscles.

When Should MSK Ultrasound Be Utilized?

MSK ultrasound can help diagnose various injuries and conditions related to the musculoskeletal structure.

Sonography is especially useful when diagnosing issues related to movement.

Incorporating an msk ultrasound when dry needling can improve accuracy to best treat the patient.

Physical therapists and other practitioners often perform dry needling, without ultrasound imaging diagnosis and guidance its primary utility is for myofascial trigger points.

Musculoskeletal sonography not only provides a real-time and very specific diagnosis,  but also allows for specific placement of the needle for trigger points, tendinopathy, intramuscular pathology, and ligaments.

The emerging practice of regenerative medicine also requires the inclusion of MSK Sonography.

Ultrasound imaging is the most accurate pre-treatment modality and has the unique capability of providing the most precise placement of the bio cellular product.

Which Patients Are Good Candidates For MSK Ultrasound?

Because sonography provides dynamic imagery, specialists can assess how movement affects the area of concern, discomfort for the patient, and blood flow.

Candidates can include young or old patients experiencing issues of injury, pain, or arthritis.  Anyone can undergo an ultrasound and the scanning probe can be placed exactly where the pain or problem is.  Because it is non-invasive and pain-free, offering MSK ultrasound as an option is a helpful way to provide better care.

Common Symptoms Of MSK Ultrasound Patients

• Muscle Tears

• Ligament Damage

• Tendon Pain

• Soft Tissue Bleeding

• Fluid Buildup

• Bursitis

• Arthritis

The advantages of utilizing msk sonography for the specialist and patient are vast.  Musculoskeletal ultrasound is a safe way for healthcare professionals to provide patients with an appropriate plan for treatment promptly.

Are you ready to master musculoskeletal sonography?  Click here to learn more about MSK Masters educational opportunities.

4 Ways Incorporating MSK Ultrasound Could Benefit Your Practice

1. An MSK Ultrasound Provides Precise Visuals For Accurate Diagnosis

Musculoskeletal sonography allows practitioners to view anatomy in real-time so that accurate conclusions can be gathered based on motion and discomfort.

The ability to see exactly how muscles, joints, and tendons are functioning, along with the blood flow surrounding them, helps ensure that the location and means of treatment are precise.  These visuals help eliminate any guessing so that the best diagnosis is possible.

2. MSK Ultrasound Create Powerful Motivation For Patient Involvement With Treatment

Patients need to understand the exact cause of injury or problem for them to feel confident with a suggested treatment plan.  Additionally, patient engagement is necessary from start to finish for treatment to be as successful as possible.

Treatment between a medical professional and patient should be a partnership.  Musculoskeletal sonography allows the patient and professional to synergistically pinpoint and view the exact problem together.  Additionally, physicians can capture and measure progress to share with patients to ensure that rehabilitation plans stay on track.

3. Utilizing MSK Ultrasound Can Save Time And Expedite Care

Because sonography creates dynamic imaging in real-time, this can eliminate waiting for services like X-rays or MRI's when they are not necessary.  Ultimately, this results in more accurate diagnosis and better patient care.

4. Incorporating MSK Ultrasound Expands Your Professional Reach

Medical practitioners, medical sonographers, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, physical therapists, and allied health professionals can all benefit as they develop expertise in MSK sonography.

Expertise in this field increases a care provider's interaction with the patient, accurately locate areas of pain, reduce, and the need for treatments involving radiation.  Also, better diagnosis and treatment helps ensure patient success.  This often results in loyalty to your practice along with patient referrals.

You or your team can learn MSK Ultrasound from the industry leaders.

MSK Masters brings nearly 30 years of experience to our courses, providing the highest quality and most in-depth material you'll find online.

Are you ready to shorten the learning curve concerning MSK Ultrasound?

Dr. Moore of MSK Masters is a highly regarded and sought after pioneer, teacher, and author in the ever-expanding field of musculoskeletal sonography.

His teaching methods have been deemed essential to shortening the learning curve for many health professionals as they develop expertise in MSK sonography.

Are you ready to learn MSK Ultrasound? Start a course today with MSK Masters!