The value of musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging in physiotherapy clinical assessment and practice
Published:
Jul 7, 2025
Keywords:
Ultrasound imaging musculoskeletal pain physiotherapy assessment clinical reasoning
Abstract
Background: Diagnostic Ultrasound imaging is an established, non-invasive, real-time, dynamic technique that enables trained clinicians including physiotherapists to visualize muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joints with high resolution and accuracy with an aim to diagnose structural or functional defects. The use of musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging extends to the evaluation of common conditions facilitating targeted and effective treatment plans and aiding the progress of rehabilitation.
Purpose: This non-systematic review aims to provide a detailed overview of the application and benefits of musculoskeletal ultrasound within physiotherapy practice in musculoskeletal soft tissue and bone lesions, respiratory physiotherapy, and critical care conditions. The integration of rehabilitative musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging into clinical practice, as examined in the literature, is discussed in relation to its role in enhancing patient outcomes, informing clinical decision-making, and its potential impact on treatment quality and therapeutic efficacy. Challenges associated with the use of ultrasound scanning, including governance-related aspects such as the requirement for specialized training and the potential for operator-dependent variability, are critically examined.
Conclusions: This review explores current advancements in musculoskeletal ultrasound technology, emphasizing its growing importance and potential in physiotherapy rehabilitation, research and clinical reasoning. Through an analysis of current literature, this article highlights the substantial impact of diagnostic ultrasound on physiotherapy clinical practice and its contribution to the advancement of patient care.
Article Details
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Papadopoulos, E., & Mani, R. (2025). The value of musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging in physiotherapy clinical assessment and practice. Health & Research Journal, 11(3), 282–296. https://doi.org/10.12681/healthresj.39362
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