Scan Type:
Musculoskeletal Scan
Musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound scans provide fast, safe, and accurate answers to help identify the cause of your symptoms. Whether it’s a sports injury, arthritis, swelling, or an unexplained lump, our expert sonographers are here to support you.
At Harmonic Medical Sonography, we know that muscle, joint, or tendon pain can affect your everyday life and limit your movement. Our musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound scans provide fast, safe, and accurate answers to help identify the cause of your symptoms. Whether it’s a sports injury, arthritis, swelling, or an unexplained lump, our expert sonographers are here to support you.
With accredited clinics in Manchester, Essex, East Sussex, and Staffordshire, we make specialist musculoskeletal imaging accessible across the regions we serve.
What is a Musculoskeletal Scan?
A musculoskeletal ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the body’s soft tissues. It provides real-time insights into:
Muscles – injuries, inflammation, or tears
Tendons – such as the rotator cuff in the shoulder or Achilles tendon in the ankle
Ligaments – sprains, strains, or damage
Joints – pain, swelling, or inflammation
Nerves – entrapments and compression syndromes
Because MSK ultrasound works in real time, you may be asked to move a joint or limb so the sonographer can see how the area behaves while in motion.
- Fully accredited and regulated by the Care Quality Commission (CQC)
- Experienced SCoR & HCPC Accredited sonographers trained to NHS standards
- State-of-the-art ultrasound technology for accurate diagnosis
- Trusted by NHS referrers and private patients across multiple clinics
- Committed to patient safety, data security, and quality care
Musculoskeletal Ultrasound
Musculoskeletal ultrasound is also used to assess soft tissue lumps and masses. It can detect:
Lipomas (fatty lumps)
Sebaceous cysts
Rheumatoid nodules or gouty deposits
Calcifications in tendons or muscles
Fluid collections, bleeding, or bruising within muscles
Rare but serious conditions such as sarcomas or secondary cancers (metastases)
The scan can show the size, location, and nature of a lesion (solid, cystic, or mixed) and whether blood flow is present — all vital details for diagnosis and treatment planning.
Interventional Ultrasound
MSK ultrasound can also be used to guide treatment. By providing real-time imaging, it allows precise placement of needles or instruments for procedures such as:
Steroid injections into joints or tendon sheaths
Aspiration of fluid from swollen areas
Removal of foreign bodies
At Harmonic Medical Sonography, we will soon be offering ultrasound-guided steroid injections as part of our musculoskeletal services.
What to Expect During Your Scan
No special preparation is required for an MSK ultrasound.
You may be asked to remove clothing or jewellery from the area being examined. A gown will be provided if necessary.
Most scans are performed with you lying on your back, but for some areas you may be asked to sit up or change position.
A sonographer will apply a small amount of gel and move a handheld probe (transducer) over the skin to capture images.
The scan usually takes 15–30 minutes, and it is safe, painless, and non-invasive.
Book Your Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scan
A musculoskeletal ultrasound scan is one of the most effective ways to investigate muscle, tendon, ligament, joint, or soft tissue problems quickly and safely. At Harmonic Medical Sonography, we provide trusted expertise, advanced imaging, and compassionate care to give you clear answers and peace of mind.
To book your MSK Ultrasound Scan, call our team on 0333 188 2370 or email Appointments@harmonicmedicalsonography.com.
For your first visit, please bring a valid ID, your insurance card, any current medications or a list of them, and any relevant medical records
Abdominal Scans - Don't eat for 6-8 Hours beforehand.
Pelvic/early pregnancy scans - Arrive with a comfortably full bladder.
Most other scans – No special preparation needed.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing. You may be asked to adjust or remove clothing around the area being scanned.
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves (not radiation), so it is very safe; even during pregnancy. It has been used in healthcare for decades.
A sonographer will place some cool gel on your skin and gently move a small handheld device (probe) over the area being scanned. You might be asked to change position, hold your breath briefly, or move a joint (for musculoskeletal scans).
A written report will be ready within 24–48 hours and sent to the Referring GP for NHS Patients.
Images or video clips (for pregnancy scans) can be provided immediately for Private Patients.
Why Choose Us
Why patients trust us with their care
Our commitment to excellence, compassion, and personalized treatment has earned the trust of countless patients. Discover what sets our care apart. Discover what sets our care apart.
- Highly Qualified Sonographers & Radiologists
- State-of-the-Art Ultrasound Equipment
- Fast, Clear & Accurate Reporting
- Patient-Centred Care
- UKAS/ISO 9001 Aligned Strict Safety & Quality Standards
100+ Expert Sonographers
Our team includes over 40+ core highly skilled Sonographers.
24/7 Instant Support
Our team includes over 50 highly skilled doctors.
Expert Clinical Team
Our team includes Qualified Radiographers for all types of Diagnostic Screening
Our Numbers
By the numbers: excellence in health
Excellence in healthcare is our standard, and our numbers back it up. From patient satisfaction rates to successful treatment outcomes.
