Diagnostic Ultrasound Imaging: See the Problem, Treat the Cause
At Barnstable Physical Therapy, we have the ability to see and treat the problem. We utilize Musculoskeletal Ultrasound (MSKUS), a cutting-edge diagnostic tool that uses sound waves to create real-time images of your muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints.
Unlike an MRI or X-ray, which are static 'snapshots,' diagnostic ultrasound allows us to observe your anatomy in motion. We can watch exactly how your rotator cuff moves when you lift your arm, or how your knee ligaments behave under stress. This dynamic imaging allows us to pinpoint the root cause of your pain with incredible accuracy."


Why Choose Diagnostic Ultrasound?
Real-Time Answers:
No waiting weeks for MRI results. We visualize the injury instantly during your evaluation.
Zero Radiation:
A safe, non-invasive alternative to X-rays and CT scans.
Dynamic Assessment: Biofeedback:
We see how your tissues move while you move, revealing issues that static images often miss.
Biofeedback:
You can watch the screen with us to learn how to correctly activate specific muscles (crucial for core and pelvic health).
What to Expect During Your Scan
1. The Evaluation Your session begins with a comprehensive physical exam. We then use the Ultrasound system to scan the painful area. You will sit or lie comfortably while we apply a water-based gel and move the transducer (probe) over your skin.
2. The Diagnosis We review the images with you immediately on the screen. We explain what healthy tissue looks like versus injured tissue, so you fully understand your condition.
3. The Plan Based on the live imaging, we build a custom recovery plan. This might include Shockwave Therapy, specific loading exercises, or manual therapy. We can even use the ultrasound in future visits to track your healing progress visually.
Diagnostic Ultrasound Pricing
| Type | Price |
| Single Scan: | $125 |
| 3-Scan Package: | $325 (Save $50) |
| Unlimited Ultrasound Access:* | $200/month (Add-on to PT plan) |
Conditions We Treat (The "Who")
We use diagnostic ultrasound to evaluate a wide range of orthopedic conditions. It is especially effective for soft tissue injuries that are often misdiagnosed.
-
Shoulder Pain: Rotator cuff tears, bursitis, and biceps tendonitis.
-
Elbow & Wrist: Tennis elbow (lateral epicondylitis), golfer’s elbow, and carpal tunnel syndrome.
-
Hip & Knee: Hip bursitis, patellar tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee), and ligament strains.
-
Foot & Ankle: Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and ankle sprains.
-
Muscle Tears: Hamstring strains and calf injuries.