Hand Ultrasound Scan
A hand ultrasound provides detailed imaging of the tendons, ligaments, joints, nerves, and soft tissues in the fingers and palm. It is used to investigate pain, swelling, stiffness, injury, or suspected soft tissue masses — and is highly effective in real-time, dynamic diagnosis.
What is a hand ultrasound?
This diagnostic scan uses high-frequency sound waves to visualise:
- Flexor and extensor tendons of the hand
- MCP (knuckle) and interphalangeal joints
- Ligaments, synovial sheaths, and bursae
- Median, radial, and ulnar nerves
- Soft tissue swellings, cysts, or masses
It allows the clinician to evaluate the hand both at rest and during finger or thumb movement, which helps in identifying tendon disorders and dynamic nerve issues.
Why consider a private ultrasound of the hand?
Consider this scan if you:
- Persistent or acute hand or finger pain
- Post-injury or post-surgical swelling
- Numbness, tingling, or weakness in the fingers
- A lump or visible change in the hand structure
- Reduced hand dexterity or function
Advantages of private ultrasound:
- No wait times – same-week appointments
- Consultant-led imaging with full reporting
- Dynamic motion-based assessment
- No radiation exposure
- Suitable for work injuries, arthritis, or trauma
Symptoms or concerns that may require this scan
Consider this scan if you are experiencing:
- Pain when gripping or extending the fingers
- Triggering or locking of a finger or thumb
- Tingling or burning sensations in fingers
- Joint swelling or reduced range of motion
- Lump or ganglion cyst in palm or wrist
- History of trauma or arthritis in the hand
What can a hand ultrasound detect?
- Tendonitis, tenosynovitis, or tendon rupture
- Ganglion cysts or soft tissue lumps
- Rheumatoid nodules or inflammatory arthritis
- Ligament tears or joint effusion
- Foreign bodies or post-traumatic changes
- Trigger finger or Dupuytren’s contracture (early signs)
- Entrapment neuropathies (e.g. ulnar nerve)
Preparing for your hand ultrasound
Preparation instructions:
- No fasting or prep needed
- Wear a short-sleeved shirt or easily removable top
- The scan takes 15–20 minutes per leg
- You may be asked to move your fingers during imaging
Inform the team if:
- You’ve had prior trauma, surgery, or injections
- You’re undergoing treatment for arthritis or carpal tunnel
- You use braces or have restricted finger movement
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.
