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Ultrasound is an imaging method that uses sound waves to visualize the internal structures of the body. For the foot and ankle, it allows a detailed study of soft tissues such as muscles, tendons, ligaments, and even nerves and blood vessels. Unlike exams like X-rays, which are great for visualizing bone, ultrasound is specifically designed to examine soft tissue and identify abnormalities that are often invisible on other types of imaging.
This method has many advantages:
Ultrasound of the foot and ankle offers a multitude of practical applications. At Médecine podiatrique du Plateau, here are some of the main reasons why this examination is performed:
Thanks to real-time imaging, podiatrists can obtain a precise view of the affected areas and thus offer more reliable diagnoses and targeted interventions.
Ultrasound is valuable for diagnosing and managing several types of pathologies. Here are some of the most frequently evaluated issues with this tool:
One of the most common causes of heel pain, plantar fasciitis leads to inflammation of the plantar fascia. Ultrasound is ideal for detecting thickening or tearing in this area.
Ultrasound can be used to visualize injuries or inflammation of tendons such as the Achilles tendon or fibular tendons. It also helps detect calcifications around the tendons, a signal of chronic tendinopathy.
Accidents or intensive sports can lead to ligament damage, as is the case in ankle sprains. The ultrasound can confirm a tear or stretch and estimate the severity of the sprain.
For this common disorder, ultrasound is used to examine the thickening of the nerves between the toes, caused by nerve compression. Learn more about Morton’s Neuroma.
These conditions are often accompanied by uncomfortable swelling. Ultrasound makes it possible to assess the size, location and even the content of these fluid masses to create an appropriate treatment plan.
In the case of persistent joint pain, ultrasound can reveal inflammation, fluid accumulated in the joint space, or even cartilage degradation. Cases of metatarsalgia may in some cases benefit from an ultrasound to specify the exact origin of the pain.
No need for special preparation. You will be asked to remove your shoes or any clothing that covers the area to be examined.
A special gel is applied to the skin to facilitate the transmission of ultrasound waves and to prevent the formation of air bubbles that can alter the image.
The podiatrist uses an ultrasound probe that he or she gently moves over the area to be examined. The probe sends ultrasound waves through the skin, which bounce off internal structures and send back echoes. This information is captured to create detailed images.
The images are visible in real time on a screen, which allows the practitioner to comment or show directly what he observes. This may include, for example, measuring tendons or checking for inflamed synovial bursa.
The procedure is painless and non-invasive and usually lasts between 15 and 30 minutes.
Get X-rays directly at our office at Médecine podiatrique du Plateau for a quick and accurate diagnosis of your foot and ankle injuries. Using our advanced digital radiology technology, we will assess your fractures, sprains and other conditions. Our podiatrists will offer you personalized treatment from your first consultation, without the need for an external referral.
Take advantage of our ultrasound-guided infiltration service in Gatineau for precise and effective treatment of foot and ankle pain such as plantar fasciitis, arthritis or osteoarthritis of the big toe (hallux rigidus).
At Médecine podiatrique du Plateau in Gatineau, the biomechanical examination is a complete and precise evaluation that includes the analysis of your gait with pressure mats, cameras and a computer-assisted system. Our podiatrists also assess your posture, range of motion and joint alignment.