Diagnostic Ultrasound
A painless, radiation-free imaging test that shows tendons, ligaments, nerves, and fluid collections in real time — right in the exam room.
What Is Diagnostic Ultrasound?
Diagnostic ultrasound is a painless, radiation-free imaging technology that uses high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the soft tissues inside your foot and ankle. It allows Dr. Clifford to see tendons, ligaments, muscles, nerves, and fluid-filled structures (like cysts or bursa).
Unlike X-ray or MRI, ultrasound shows your tissues moving in real time — so Dr. Clifford can see exactly what happens when you move or press on a painful area.
How Does It Work?
A small handheld device called a transducer is placed on your skin over the area of concern. The transducer sends high-frequency sound waves into your body. These sound waves bounce off your tissues and return to the transducer, which converts them into live images on a screen.
Key Advantages
- No radiation – Completely safe, no exposure to ionizing radiation
- Real-time imaging – See tissues moving as you move your foot
- Quick and painless – Exam typically takes less than 15 minutes
- No preparation needed – No fasting, no contrast dye, no needles
- Portable – Can be performed right in the exam room
What Conditions Can Ultrasound Diagnose?
Tendon Conditions
- Plantar Fasciitis
- Achilles Tendinitis & Tears
- Posterior Tibial Tendinitis
- Peroneal Tendinitis
- Tendon subluxation or dislocation
Nerve & Soft Tissue
- Morton's Neuroma
- Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome
- Ganglion cysts
- Bursitis
- Plantar plate tears
Ligament & Other Conditions
- Ankle ligament sprains (ATFL, CFL, PTFL)
- Foreign bodies (splinters, glass, metal)
- Soft tissue masses or tumors
- Fluid collections or abscesses
Beyond Diagnosis: Ultrasound-Guided Procedures
In addition to diagnosis, Dr. Clifford uses ultrasound to guide injections and procedures with pinpoint accuracy. This ensures the medication is delivered exactly where it is needed — improving results and reducing side effects.
- Cortisone injections for arthritis, tendinitis, or neuromas
- Aspiration (draining) of cysts or fluid collections
- Regenerative injections (prolotherapy, RPA, homeopathic injectables)
- Needle guidance for diagnostic aspiration
What to Expect at Pathways Foot & Ankle
- A thorough clinical examination before the ultrasound
- Real-time imaging performed by Dr. Clifford right in the exam room
- Immediate results — Dr. Clifford will show you the images and explain what they mean
- A treatment plan based on the findings — no waiting for a radiology report
- Transparent pricing with no surprise bills
- Same-day or next-day appointments, no referral needed
Frequently Asked Questions
Does ultrasound hurt?
No. Diagnostic ultrasound is painless. The transducer is glided over the skin with a small amount of gel. You may feel light pressure, especially if the area is already tender, but there are no needles or electrical sensations.
Is there any radiation exposure?
None. Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves, not ionizing radiation. It's safe for repeated use, and there's no special preparation required.
How long does the exam take?
Typically 10–15 minutes, though it depends on how many areas we need to evaluate. Results are reviewed with you in the same visit — no waiting for a radiology report.
Can ultrasound find everything an MRI can?
No. MRI remains better for certain deep bone, cartilage, and marrow problems. But for most soft-tissue foot and ankle issues — tendons, ligaments, nerves, fluid collections, foreign bodies — ultrasound is fast, accurate, and far less expensive. If MRI is needed, Dr. Clifford will tell you.
Can ultrasound be used to guide injections?
Yes. We frequently use ultrasound to guide cortisone, regenerative, and other injections with pinpoint accuracy. This improves results and reduces the risk of injecting the wrong structure.
Take the next step — reach out today
Pathways Foot & Ankle - Dr. Craig Clifford
216 14th St, Oregon City, OR 97045
(971) 359-5299 — Call Dr. Clifford directly
Same-day & next-day appointments available, no referral needed
House calls also available throughout the region.