Diagnostic Ultrasound
Patient Information Guide | Pathways Foot & Ankle
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
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
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, PRP, homeopathic injectables)
- Needle guidance for diagnostic aspiration
Ready to get a clear diagnosis?
Call Dr. Clifford directly at (971) 359-5299 or visit www.pathwaysfoot.com to schedule your evaluation.
216 14th St, Oregon City, OR 97045 | Same-day visits available