Diagnostics and Evaluation

Musculoskeletal ultrasound

The musculoskeletal ultrasound used at our center can help diagnose a wide range of chronic conditions and injuries. These include rotator cuff tears, joint problems, tendonitis, bursitis and more, as well as masses such as cysts.

Ultrasound is painless and non-invasive, and does not use ionizing radiation. It can be used in patients with ferromagnetic implants without impacting image quality. Ultrasound is also used to monitor the effect of treatment during rehabilitation.

Concussion treatment with ImPACT concussion testing

ImPACT (immediate post-concussion assessment and cognitive testing) is a highly effective tool for evaluating and comparing a person’s neurocognitive state before and after a concussion occurs. A baseline test is required to establish a person’s normal cognitive state. Should a concussion be suspected, this test measures visual and verbal memory, reaction time and processing speed to help determine if an athlete can safely return to activity. The test takes about 20 minutes and provides a more definitive test for concussion than traditional methods.

EMG

EMG stands for electromyography. It is a test that stimulates a nerve in order to assess or detect neuromuscular abnormalities. One or more small electrodes are inserted into the skin and into the muscle. The EMG then measures the electrical activity of the muscle during rest, during a slight contraction and during a forceful contraction.

X-Ray

Also called “radiography” x-ray is the oldest and most used form of diagnostic imaging to see inside the body. It uses a focused beam and special detector to obtain images of body anatomy. Ii is safe and non-invasive, and most often used in orthopedic practices to detect fractures.

MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a form of advanced imaging that is most often used in orthopedics to detect problems with the body’s soft tissues. It uses a computer, a magnetic field and radio waves to generate anatomical images. Modern generations of MRI are capable of detecting very small injuries to the body’s musculoskeletal system that can be missed with x-ray or ultrasound.

Diagnostics and Evaluation

Musculoskeletal ultrasound

Concussion treatment with ImPACT concussion testing

EMG

X-Ray

MRI

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact West Coast Orthopedics.