Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging

Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging

Plains Physical Therapy provides diagnostic ultrasound imaging services which can help identify the root cause of your pain and movement dysfunction. Ultrasound allows for visualization of many common conditions including carpal tunnel syndrome, nerve entrapments, rotator cuff disorders, muscle strains/tears, ankle ligament sprains, peripheral meniscus tears, tendon issues such as tendinitis or tendinopathy, certain joint problems, and bursitis. The combination of ultrasound with a thorough examination provides a better idea of the extent of your problem compared to a physical examination alone. Being able to visualize your body structure helps your therapist design the most effective treatment plan for your particular condition whether that be targeted strengthening, relative unloading, bracing, or referral to another provider. Unlike most other imaging modalities, it has the advantage of being able to visualize your tissues during movement. This can be used to ensure that you are activating the correct muscles to optimize your movement patterns and to make sure you are strengthening the correct tissues. It also is radiation free. 

Ultrasound is most useful for shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, hand, ankle, knee, and foot problems. It is not very useful for imaging the spine, and we do not examine mysterious lumps/bumps (such as lipomas) with ultrasound as these conditions are not treated by physical therapists- if we incidentally see these types of problems we refer them back to your primary care physician. If you suspect you have fractured something, we recommend you speak with your primary care physician prior to scheduling an ultrasound examination- we will refer you back to your physician anyway if fractures are discovered during an examination. You can access physical therapy services in Montana without referral but many insurances will require that you obtain a referral from your doctor to pay for your visit. We also offer cash based services. Consider contacting Plains Physical Therapy today to get started.