Electrocardiogram (ECG)
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One Limb
185.00
A musculoskeletal ultrasound scan assesses muscles, tendons, ligaments and joints in one limb using real-time imaging. It is ideal for diagnosing injuries, inflammation and soft tissue conditions quickly and safely.
Turnaround time
1 day
Same-Day Appointments
UKAS Accredited Labs
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Under 18? Patients under 18 can only be seen at GB Medlabs and Clinilabs, Monday to Friday only.
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Details about One Limb
What is a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scan (One Limb)?
A musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce real-time images of muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints and surrounding soft tissues. It does not use radiation and is considered very safe.
A one-limb MSK ultrasound focuses on a single upper or lower limb, such as the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hand, hip, knee, ankle or foot. Because ultrasound imaging is dynamic, the clinician can assess structures during movement, which is particularly useful for detecting tendon tears, inflammation or instability.
MSK ultrasound is commonly used in orthopaedics, sports medicine and rehabilitation, and is often the first-line imaging choice for soft tissue injuries.
Why do I need a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scan?
A musculoskeletal ultrasound scan is recommended when limb pain, swelling or reduced movement suggests a soft tissue injury or inflammatory condition. It allows rapid diagnosis without exposure to radiation.
You may need a musculoskeletal ultrasound scan if you experience:
- Limb pain or tenderness
- Swelling or visible soft tissue lumps
- Suspected tendon or ligament injury
- Sports-related injuries
- Reduced range of movement
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Clicking or snapping sensations
- Localised inflammation
- Suspected fluid collections or bursitis
- Poor response to rest or physiotherapy
Early imaging helps guide treatment and speeds up recovery.
Benefits of a Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scan
- Real-time dynamic imaging
Allows assessment of structures during movement. - No radiation exposure
Completely safe for repeated use. - Fast diagnosis
Often performed and reported on the same day. - Excellent soft tissue detail
Ideal for tendons, muscles and ligaments. - Guides treatment and injections
Can be used to assist targeted procedures. - Cost-effective imaging option
More affordable than MRI for many conditions. - Immediate clinical correlation
Symptoms can be assessed during the scan. - Comfortable and accessible
No enclosed spaces or loud equipment.
Step-by-Step – How We Offer Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scans
Clinic-Based Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Scan (UK-wide)
- Choose your nearest UK clinic
- Attend your appointment
- The scan typically takes 15–30 minutes
- Performed by an experienced clinician
- Findings are explained during or shortly after the scan
Important:
Musculoskeletal ultrasound scans are performed in clinic only. Home visits are not available. Services are available across the UK.
Your Musculoskeletal Ultrasound Results Explained
Musculoskeletal ultrasound results are based on structural appearance and movement, rather than numerical values.
Normal Results
What this means:
- Normal muscle and tendon structure
- No tears, inflammation or fluid collections
What it suggests:
Symptoms may be functional, overuse-related or referred from another area.
Mild to Moderate Abnormal Findings
What this may show:
- Tendinitis or tenosynovitis
- Partial tendon or ligament tears
- Bursitis
- Mild fluid accumulation
What it suggests:
Often managed with rest, physiotherapy, injections or conservative treatment.
Significant or Severe Abnormal Findings
What this may show:
- Full-thickness tendon or ligament tears
- Significant inflammation
- Large fluid collections
- Structural instability
What it suggests:
May require specialist referral, advanced imaging or surgical assessment.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
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Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
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Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
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Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
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WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
No. The scan is painless and non-invasive. Mild pressure may be applied with the probe, but it is generally well tolerated.
Most scans take 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the area being examined.
In most cases, no referral is required. A brief clinical assessment is carried out beforehand.
Yes. Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and is considered extremely safe.
It can detect tendon and ligament injuries, muscle tears, inflammation, bursitis, fluid collections and soft tissue masses.
Ultrasound is excellent for many soft tissue conditions and offers real-time assessment. MRI may be recommended if deeper structures need evaluation.
Yes. Ultrasound is commonly used to guide joint or soft tissue injections accurately.
Results are often explained on the same day or shortly after the scan.
Wear comfortable clothing that allows easy access to the affected limb.
Yes. Ultrasound is safe for children and commonly used in paediatric assessments.
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