Our wrist ultrasound scans evaluate the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues in the wrist and hand region, helping to diagnose and guide treatment for various conditions.
Individuals experiencing wrist pain, swelling, weakness, numbness, or limited range of motion may benefit from a wrist ultrasound scan. This includes athletes, manual labourers, and those with overuse injuries like carpal tunnel syndrome or De Quervain's tenosynovitis. The scan is also recommended for those with suspected soft tissue injuries such as ligament sprains, tendon tears, or ganglion cysts, as well as those with a history of wrist trauma or surgery. Wrist ultrasound scans can help identify the cause of symptoms and guide appropriate treatment.
During a wrist ultrasound scan, you'll sit comfortably with your arm resting on a table and your wrist exposed. A clear, water-based gel will be applied to your skin, and a handheld device called a transducer will be moved over the wrist and hand region to capture detailed images of the muscles, tendons, ligaments, and soft tissues. The radiologist may ask you to perform simple movements or apply gentle pressure to assess the structures under dynamic conditions. The procedure is painless and usually takes 20-30 minutes, depending on the extent of the examination.
No special preparation is needed for a wrist ultrasound scan. Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your wrist and hand, and remove any watches, bracelets, or accessories that may interfere with the transducer. Inform your radiologist of any relevant medical history, current medications, or allergies, as this may impact the interpretation of the results. If you have any concerns or questions about the procedure, don't hesitate to discuss them with your radiologist before the scan.
If you experience persistent wrist pain, swelling, weakness, numbness, or limited range of motion, schedule your wrist ultrasound scan as soon as possible. Early diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further damage and promote faster recovery. Your GP or hand specialist will guide you on the appropriate timing based on your individual circumstances and the severity of your symptoms. If you have suffered an acute wrist injury or have recently undergone wrist surgery, your specialist may recommend a scan to assess the extent of the damage or monitor the healing process.
We provide a comprehensive range of services, from private GP consultations and specialised men's and women's health care to advanced ultrasound scans and proactive health screenings, all within a reassuring and state-of-the-art environment.
You have a question? We have an answer.
While a wrist ultrasound scan is primarily used to evaluate the soft tissue structures in the wrist and hand region, it can sometimes detect cortical irregularities or disruptions suggestive of fractures. However, X-rays or CT scans are typically the imaging modalities of choice for diagnosing wrist fractures, as they provide more detailed visualisation of the bone structures. If a fracture is suspected based on the ultrasound findings or clinical presentation, additional imaging may be recommended.
Yes, a wrist ultrasound scan can be a valuable tool in diagnosing and monitoring various types of arthritis affecting the wrist, such as rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis. The scan can detect signs of synovial inflammation, joint effusion, erosions, or changes in the cartilage and bone surfaces. Ultrasound can also guide therapeutic interventions like joint injections and assess the response to treatment over time.
Yes, you can typically resume normal activities immediately after a wrist ultrasound scan, as the procedure does not involve any radiation or invasive techniques. However, if you have been experiencing wrist pain or instability, your radiologist or GP may advise you to modify your activities or follow a specific treatment plan based on the scan results. Always follow your healthcare provider's recommendations to ensure the best possible outcome and prevent further injury or aggravation of your condition.
At Spital Clinic, a private Wrist Ultrasound Scan with our expert sonographers costs £150. We are open 7 days a week and can offer morning, day and evening appointments. If you are using private health insurance, please call the clinic to provide your authorisation number. To book, please click here.
An ultrasound scan, also known as sonography, is a medical imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to create images of the inside of the body. It is a safe and painless procedure that does not use ionising radiation. Ultrasound scans are commonly used to monitor pregnancy, diagnose conditions, and guide medical procedures. The images are created in real-time, allowing healthcare professionals to view the structure and movement of internal organs and tissues.
During an ultrasound scan, a small device called a transducer is placed on the skin over the area to be examined. The transducer emits high-frequency sound waves that travel through the body and bounce back when they encounter different tissues. The transducer then receives these reflected waves and converts them into electrical signals, which are processed by a computer to create images of the internal structures. The images can be displayed on a monitor or printed for further analysis.
Yes, ultrasound scans are generally considered safe for both the patient and the unborn baby (in the case of pregnancy scans). Unlike X-rays or CT scans, ultrasound does not use ionising radiation, which can potentially harm living tissues. There are no known side effects or risks associated with ultrasound scans when performed by qualified healthcare professionals. However, it is essential to ensure that the scan is medically necessary and performed by a trained specialist.
There are several types of ultrasound scans, each designed for specific purposes:
Abdominal ultrasound: Used to examine organs in the abdomen, such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, and kidneys.
Pelvic ultrasound: Used to assess the uterus, ovaries, and other pelvic structures in women, or the prostate gland in men.
Pregnancy ultrasound: Used to monitor fetal development, confirm the due date, and detect potential complications.
Breast ultrasound: Used to evaluate breast lumps or abnormalities detected during a mammogram or physical exam.
Vascular ultrasound: Used to assess blood flow in arteries and veins and detect blockages or clots.
According to verified reviews from platforms such as Doctify, TrustPilot and Google - 99% patients have a positive experience at Spital Clinic.
"Great experience. Frustratingly we had 3 NIPTs come back with no result so had to do 3 blood redraws but thanks to LPC’s persistence we finally got a result on the 4th draw. After the 3rd no result they also kindly offered us a free anomaly scan."
"I had a surprisingly positive experience. The most friendly and helpful staff, clean and beautiful premises. The visit was smooth and quick but never felt rushed and I was able to ask all the questions I had. Thanks so much!"
"The service was exceptional from the moment we booked to the moment we left the building post our appointment. The lovely colleagues at the main desk were great and approachable. They made the whole process very comforting."
"I really recommend this clinic, everything was smooth and perfect. All staff are helpful and our sonographer Miss Shaz is an expert on her job, she is very kind and explained everything that we asked. I am glad to choose LPC."
Our medical centre is at 36 Spital Square, E1 6DY, City of London.
