Ankle Scan
An ankle scan is an important diagnostic tool that produces detailed images of the structures within the ankle joint. This enables physicians to accurately identify and manage various ankle-related conditions.
Adults, particularly athletes, frequently develop ankle injuries that can be either acute or chronic. At Sonoclinic, we specialise in providing ankle scan services to help examine areas such as:
- Achilles tendon
- Ankle tendons
- Extensor tendons
- Peroneal tendons
- Flexor tendons
- Major ankle ligaments
- Ankle and subtalar joints
- Anterior joint space
- Retrocalcaneal bursa
- Lateral collateral ligaments (ATFL)
Why You May Need an Ankle Scan
An ankle ultrasound scan may be recommended for different reasons:
- Ankle injury
- Ankle pain and swelling
- Pain while walking
- Reduced stability
- Limited movement
- Ankle discomfort
- Inflammation
- Ankle lump
- Post-surgical concerns such as abscesses or oedema.
- Foreign object detection like glass or metal in soft tissues.
What Can an Ankle Scan Detect?
An ankle ultrasound scan can help diagnose a variety of conditions affecting the ankle joint, including:
- Ankle sprains and tears
- Tendinitis
- Bursitis
- Arthritis
- Soft tissue masses
- Achilles swelling
- Inflammation and swelling (conditions like bursitis or tenosynovitis)
- Tendinopathy or tendinosis (thickening or degeneration of the tendons)
- Traumatic injury
- Fluid build-up in the ankle joint
- Overuse injuries
Procedure Details
An ankle scans is rapid, painless, and safe procedures that don't require any additional preparation. It employs ultrasound waves to visualise the ankle and assess its structures.
During the scan, a water-based gel is applied to the ankle to ensure clear imaging. A transducer (ultrasound probe) is then gently moved over the skin to capture real-time images. The procedure usually lasts 15 to 20 minutes.
After the scan, your results will be reviewed and discussed with you. You will also receive a diagnostic ultrasound report with recommended next steps.