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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…

A stress fracture in musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound refers to a tiny crack in a bone, commonly caused by repetitive stress rather than a single traumatic event. In medical imaging, particularly with ultrasound, stress fractures can be challenging to detect in early stages, as they may not be visible on initial X-rays. Ultrasound can play a…

In musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound, a tendon is a crucial fibrous connective tissue that links muscle to bone, enabling movement and stability. These structures are composed of dense, regular collagen fibers, which appear hyperechoic and fascicular on ultrasound imaging. Proper identification and assessment of tendon integrity are vital in diagnosing conditions like tendinitis, tears, or tenosynovitis,…

A ligament is a strong, fibrous band of connective tissue that plays a vital role in the musculoskeletal (MSK) system by connecting bones to other bones. These resilient structures provide crucial stability to joints, limiting excessive movement and preventing dislocation. In medical and ultrasound imaging, assessing ligaments is key for diagnosing injuries such as sprains,…

In musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound, muscles are critical soft tissue structures visualized for diagnostic purposes. These contractile tissues, essential for movement and posture, appear with a characteristic pennate or parallel fibrillar echotexture on ultrasound images. Understanding their normal sonographic appearance is fundamental for identifying pathology. Medical professionals leverage MSK ultrasound to assess muscle injuries such as…

In musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound, a fascial plane refers to a thin layer of connective tissue that separates muscles, organs, or other structures. These planes are crucial for identifying anatomical landmarks, guiding needle procedures like nerve blocks or aspirations, and assessing fluid collections or pathologies. Understanding fascial planes enhances visualization and precision in diagnostic and interventional…

In musculoskeletal (MSK) ultrasound, a "nerve" refers to a bundle of axons that transmit electrical signals throughout the body, playing a crucial role in sensory perception and motor control. Ultrasound imaging allows for real-time, non-invasive visualization of peripheral nerves, aiding in the diagnosis of various neuropathies, entrapment syndromes, and nerve injuries. This precise anatomical assessment…