What is a Hip Ultrasound Scan?

A Hip Ultrasound Scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of the hip joint and surrounding soft tissues. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound does not use ionising radiation and is considered very safe.

The scan allows clinicians to assess structures such as hip tendons, muscles, bursae, ligaments and joint fluid. It is particularly effective for identifying soft tissue conditions, inflammation and fluid collections around the hip.

Hip ultrasound is widely used in musculoskeletal medicine and orthopaedics and is suitable for both adults and children, including infant hip assessments when clinically indicated.

Why do I need a Hip Ultrasound Scan?

A Hip Ultrasound Scan is recommended when hip pain, swelling or reduced movement suggests a soft tissue or inflammatory condition rather than a bone problem. It helps identify the cause of symptoms quickly and accurately.

You may need a Hip Ultrasound Scan if you experience:

• Hip pain or tenderness
• Pain when walking, standing or exercising
• Swelling around the hip or groin
• Suspected bursitis or tendon inflammation
• Sports-related hip injuries
• Clicking or snapping sensations
• Reduced range of hip movement
• Hip pain after injury or overuse
• Monitoring of known hip conditions
• Assessment of hip problems in infants or children

Early imaging supports prompt treatment and prevents symptom progression.

Benefits of a Hip Ultrasound Scan

• Real-time dynamic imaging
  Allows assessment of the hip during movement.
• No radiation exposure
  Completely safe for adults and children.
• Excellent soft tissue visualisation
  Ideal for tendons, muscles and bursae.
• Fast diagnosis
  Often performed and explained on the same day.
• Detects inflammation and fluid
  Accurately identifies bursitis and joint effusions.
• Guides treatment and injections
  Useful for targeted hip injections when required.
• Cost-effective imaging option
  More affordable than MRI for many conditions.
• Comfortable and accessible
  No enclosed scanners or loud equipment.

Step-by-Step – How We Offer Hip Ultrasound Scans

Clinic-Based Hip Ultrasound Scan (UK-wide)

• Choose your nearest UK clinic
• Attend your scheduled appointment
• The scan typically takes 15–30 minutes
• Performed by an experienced clinician
• Findings are explained during or shortly after the scan

Important:
Hip ultrasound scans are performed in clinic only. Home visits are not available. Services are available across the UK.

Your Hip Ultrasound Results Explained

Hip ultrasound results are based on structure, movement and tissue appearance, rather than numerical values.

Normal Results

What this means:

• Normal hip joint appearance
• No fluid, inflammation or tendon abnormalities

What it suggests:
Symptoms may be muscular, postural or referred from another area.

Mild to Moderate Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Bursitis
• Tendinitis or tendon thickening
• Mild joint fluid
• Soft tissue inflammation

What it suggests:
Often managed with physiotherapy, rest, medication or injections.

Significant or Severe Abnormal Findings

What this may show:

• Large fluid collections
• Significant tendon tears
• Severe inflammation
• Structural instability

What it suggests:
May require specialist referral, further imaging or interventional treatment.