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Knee effusion, in musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound, refers to the abnormal accumulation of fluid within the knee joint capsule. This common medical finding can indicate various pathologies, including trauma, inflammation (like arthritis), or infection. Ultrasound is a highly effective tool for detecting and quantifying knee effusions, allowing clinicians to assess fluid volume, characterize its nature (e.g.,…

An ankle sprain, a common musculoskeletal (MSK) injury, involves the stretching or tearing of ligaments supporting the ankle joint, typically occurring after a sudden twist or roll of the foot. In medical ultrasound, ankle sprains are assessed to evaluate ligament integrity, identify fluid collections (hematoma or edema), and rule out associated fractures or tendon injuries.…

Shoulder impingement is a common musculoskeletal (MSK) condition where the rotator cuff tendons or bursa become compressed as they pass through the subacromial space. This compression often occurs during arm elevation, leading to pain, weakness, and reduced range of motion. It is frequently caused by repetitive overhead activities, bony spurs, or inflammatory changes, impacting daily…

Developmental dysplasia of the hip (DDH) in musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound refers to a spectrum of abnormalities affecting the hip joint's development in infants, ranging from subtle laxity to complete dislocation. Early diagnosis is crucial for preventing long-term complications like arthritis. Ultrasound is the preferred imaging modality for DDH screening due to its non-ionizing nature and…

Myositis, in the musculoskeletal (MSK) context, refers to the inflammation of muscles, leading to weakness, swelling, and pain. This condition can be caused by various factors, including infections, autoimmune disorders, injuries, or certain medications. Diagnosing myositis often involves a combination of clinical evaluation, blood tests to identify muscle enzyme elevations, and imaging studies. Medical ultrasound…

Muscle herniation, in the musculoskeletal (MSK) context, refers to the protrusion of muscle tissue through a defect in its surrounding fascial sheath. This condition commonly occurs in the lower leg, particularly in the tibialis anterior muscle, often due to repetitive strain, trauma, or congenital weakness. On ultrasound, it appears as a focal disruption of the…

Enthesopathy, in musculoskeletal (MSK) medical ultrasound, refers to a pathological condition affecting entheses—the sites where tendons, ligaments, or joint capsules attach to bone. These attachment points are crucial for body movement, and inflammation or degeneration here can lead to pain, swelling, and impaired function. Ultrasound is a vital imaging tool for diagnosing enthesopathy, allowing clinicians…

Compartment syndrome is a painful and dangerous condition occurring when pressure within muscles builds to dangerous levels. Typically, it arises from trauma, such as a fracture or severe bruise, leading to swelling within a confined muscle compartment. This increased pressure restricts blood flow, potentially causing nerve and muscle damage if not promptly treated. In musculoskeletal…

A rotator cuff tear is a common musculoskeletal (MSK) injury involving one or more of the four tendons surrounding the shoulder joint. These tears can range from partial to full-thickness and are a significant cause of shoulder pain and weakness, often resulting from acute trauma or chronic degeneration. In medical imaging, ultrasound is a valuable…