Ultrasound / Knee Ultrasound Scan
Knee Ultrasound Scan
A knee ultrasound is a quick, non-invasive scan that uses high-frequency sound waves to examine the tendons, ligaments, joint spaces, soft tissues, and fluid-filled structures of the knee. It is particularly effective in detecting inflammation, injuries, cysts, or arthritis-related changes.
What is a knee ultrasound?
This scan uses a handheld probe (transducer) to send sound waves into the knee joint. The reflected echoes form detailed images of:
- Patellar tendon and quadriceps tendon
- Medial and lateral ligaments
- Meniscus edges and joint capsule
- Synovial fluid, bursae, and cysts (e.g. Baker’s cyst)
- Post-traumatic or post-surgical changes
Ultrasound can assess the joint dynamically — while you move or apply pressure — which is not possible with other imaging like MRI or X-ray.
Why consider a private ultrasound of the knee?
This scan is ideal if you:
- Have persistent or recent knee pain
- Suspect a ligament or tendon tear
- Experience swelling, locking, or instability
- Want to assess joint fluid or inflammation
- Need post-surgical or post-injury evaluation
Benefits of a private ultrasound:
- Real-time imaging with movement
- Quick, safe, and affordable
- No radiation exposure
- Performed and interpreted by experienced clinicians
- Immediate feedback in most cases
Symptoms or concerns that may warrant a knee ultrasound
This scan may be recommended for:
- Knee pain or tenderness
- Swelling or joint effusion
- Suspected meniscal or ligament injury
- Clicking or locking sensation
- Suspected bursitis or Baker’s cyst
- Monitoring post-operative healing
What can a knee ultrasound detect?
Ultrasound of the knee can reveal:
- Tendon tears or tendinopathy
- Bursitis and synovial fluid buildup
- Inflammatory changes (e.g. rheumatoid arthritis)
- Meniscal degeneration (peripheral edges)
- Ligament sprains or rupture
- Joint effusion and cysts
- Post-surgical or traumatic changes
Preparing for your knee ultrasound
Preparation instructions:
- No fasting or special preparation required
- Wear loose clothing or shorts
- The scan is painless and takes around 15–20 minutes
- You can resume normal activities immediately
Let us know in advance if:
- You've had recent surgery or trauma
- You are pregnant or on anticoagulant medications
- You're experiencing restricted movement or joint locking
How it works
Smarter Scanning. Proactive Health. Peace of Mind.
Choose
Pick a scan or a program. No referral required.
Book
Select a time online - same‑day availability.
Scan
Be seen by specialists in our Bluewater clinic.
Results
Consultant‑led report within 3 working days, accessible online.
Get clarity. Get control.
Cut out long NHS queues, avoid opaque private quotes, and step into a single-visit, consultant-led experience.
