Upper Arm Ultrasound Scan
An ultrasound of the upper arm is used to evaluate the muscles, tendons, nerves, and soft tissues of the upper limb, particularly the biceps, triceps, and surrounding structures. It is effective in diagnosing muscle tears, fluid collections, nerve entrapment, or post-injury changes.
What is an upper arm ultrasound?
This scan uses high-frequency sound waves to provide real-time images of:
- Biceps and triceps muscles
- Long and short heads of the biceps tendon
- Nerves and vascular bundles (e.g. brachial artery)
- Fascial planes and soft tissue compartments
- Any visible or palpable lumps or collections
The scan may be conducted with light movement or positioning to assess dynamic function and localized pain areas.
Why consider a private ultrasound of the upper arm?
Consider this scan if you:
- Suspected muscle tear or strain
- Visible swelling or lumps
- Soft tissue pain following trauma
- Monitoring of post-operative healing
- Nerve symptoms like tingling or numbness
- Sports injuries involving weightlifting or impact
Advantages of private ultrasound:
- Immediate access with no referral
- Dynamic assessment during muscle movement
- No radiation exposure
- Digital report with expert interpretation
- Safe and painless
Symptoms or concerns that may warrant this scan
Consider this scan if you are experiencing:
- Pain or pulling sensation in the upper arm
- Visible bulge or swelling
- Restricted arm mobility or weakness
- Numbness or tingling extending to the forearm
- Recurrent strain or delayed muscle recovery
- Hard or soft lumps in the muscle region
What can an upper arm ultrasound detect?
- Biceps or triceps tears or tendinosis
- Soft tissue injuries or muscle strains
- Fluid collections, hematomas, or abscesses
- Benign or suspicious soft tissue lumps
- Post-injury inflammation or scar tissue
- Nerve entrapments or irritation
- ost-operative or injection-site reactions
Preparing for your upper arm ultrasound
Preparation instructions:
- Wear short sleeves or sleeveless clothing
- No fasting or special preparation needed
- The scan takes 15–20 minutes per leg
- You may be asked to contract or move the arm during scanning
Inform the team if:
- You’ve had recent injury, surgery, or injections
- You’re experiencing neurological symptoms
- You’re undergoing physiotherapy or rehabilitation
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.
