Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Research Today is a free monthly online journal that collates and summarizes the latest research about Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, including details on symptoms, causes, trauma, diagnosis, physiotherapy.

Introduction to musculoskeletal diagnostic ultrasound: examination of the upper limb.

Lew HL, Chen CP, Wang TG, Chew KT

Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Stanford University School of Medicine/VA Palo Alto, CA, USA.

With recent advances in computer technology and equipment miniaturization, the clinical application of diagnostic ultrasonography (U/S) has spread across various medical specialties. Diagnostic U/S is attractive in terms of its noninvasiveness, lack of radiation, readiness of use, cost-effectiveness, and its ability to make dynamic examinations possible. Dynamic imaging deserves special emphasis because it is useful in differentiating full-thickness from partial-thickness tendon tears, muscle tears, and tendon and nerve subluxations or dislocations. It is also a quick and easy avenue for side-to-side comparisons. When appropriately used, diagnostic U/S can be considered as an extension of one's physical examination. However, there are limitations of U/S, which will be discussed in this review article. This is part 1 of two articles; this first part will focus on the ultrasound examination of the upper extremity, using selected examples relevant to musculoskeletal medicine. Part 2 will cover common pathologies of the lower extremity.

Published 6 April 2007 in Am J Phys Med Rehabil, 86(4): 310-21.
Full-text of this article is available online (may require subscription).

© 2005-2008 Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Research Today. All Rights Reserved.