Shoulder Ultrasound Scan
A shoulder ultrasound scan is designed to evaluate the key musculoskeletal components of the shoulder thoroughly. It employs high-frequency sound waves to generate visuals of the internal shoulder joint. At Sonoclinic, this test helps us assess various structures, including muscles, tendons, bones, joints, ligaments, and other soft tissues.
Purpose of a Shoulder Scan
A shoulder ultrasound can help with:
- Rotator cuff tendons
- Biceps tendon
- Subscapularis tendon
- Supraspinatus tendon
- Infraspinatus tendon
- Acromioclavicular joint
- Abnormal fluid build-up or inflammation in the shoulder
- Limited range of motion
- Impingement
Reasons You May Need a Shoulder Ultrasound Scan
A shoulder ultrasound may be recommended for one or more of these:
- Shoulder injury: Often used to examine sprains, tears, and tendonitis.
- Shoulder pain
- Restricted or reduced movement
- Aching in the shoulder
- Swelling in the shoulder
- Joint pain
- Stiffness
- Clicking or locking sensation
- Discomfort in the shoulder
- Inflammation
- Lumps in the shoulder
- Post-surgical complications (abscess or oedema)
- Detection of foreign objects such as metal or glass fragments lodged in soft tissues.
What Can a Shoulder Ultrasound Detect?
A shoulder ultrasound evaluate various common conditions, including:
- Tendon tears or ruptures
- Tendonitis
- Calcific tendinitis
- Rotator cuff tears
- Capsulitis or bursitis
- Frozen shoulder
- Certain tumours and cancers
- Soft tissue masses (e.g., lipomas, ganglia)
- Ligament injuries
- Muscle damage (acute or chronic)
- Joint effusions
- Haematomas
- Mass classification (solid, cystic, or mixed)
- Some bone-related conditions, such as arthritis
What to Expect
A shoulder ultrasound is a quick and painless procedure that utilises ultrasound waves to examine internal structures. It requires no special preparation, and you can eat and drink normally before and after the scan. However, you may be asked to bring your doctor’s referral form and any previous imaging results.
After the scan, your results will be examined and shared with you. You will also get a chance to ask your provider any questions.