Ultrasound of the Achilles tendon
For Achilles pain, diagnostic ultrasound can show thickening of the tendon and any micro-ruptures. The examination is always combined with a conversation and a clinical examination. You do not need a referral to book an appointment.
See available slotsWhen is ultrasound relevant for Achilles pain?
The diagnosis is usually made from a conversation and a clinical examination, and the guideline states that imaging is not necessary to make it. Ultrasound may be relevant when the diagnosis is uncertain, when improvement fails to appear or symptoms worsen during treatment, or when an intervention is being considered.
What can the examination show?
Ultrasound can show the degree of thickening of the tendon and any micro-ruptures. The clinician can also compare with the healthy side, examine the tendon in motion and rescan during the course of the problem.
What can ultrasound not decide alone?
Increased tendon thickness is common in tendinopathy but not specific. Up to one in four adults without symptoms also has increased thickness. Imaging findings must therefore be read together with the history and the clinical examination.
Sound waves do not pass through bone. Deep structures in the joints are therefore often better assessed with MRI or X-ray.
Who performs the examination, and what does it cost?
At Dr.Dropin, ultrasound is performed by licensed healthcare professionals with further education in diagnostic ultrasound of the musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapists and chiropractors use ultrasound as a tool in the examination.
An ultrasound examination costs NOK 1,395.
Frequently asked questions about ultrasound of the Achilles tendon
Do I need ultrasound to get a diagnosis of Achilles tendonitis?
Not necessarily. The guideline for Achilles pain states that imaging is not necessary to make the diagnosis, but that it may be relevant when the diagnosis is uncertain or improvement fails to appear.
Can a thickened tendon be found without pain?
Yes. According to the guideline for Achilles pain, up to one in four adults without symptoms also has increased tendon thickness.
Is ultrasound better than MRI?
They have different uses. Ultrasound is inexpensive and easily available, while MRI is often used when deep structures are to be assessed, since sound waves do not pass through bone.
Do I need a referral to book an appointment?
No, you do not need a GP referral to book an appointment.
Clinical responsibility
Daniel Vestøl is clinically and medically responsible at Dr.Dropin Fysikalske. This page gives general information and does not replace an examination by a healthcare professional.