Musculoskeletal Imaging Specialist
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ForeFront Radiology
Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology based out of Fresno, CA
Musculoskeletal diseases and injuries like sprains, strains, and fractures, are a common cause of pain and loss of function. If you have problems with your joints, back, or muscles, the board-certified interventional radiologists at ForeFront Radiology in Fresno, California, can help. They use cutting-edge musculoskeletal imaging techniques to diagnose the cause of your pain and assess the exact nature of the damage, ensuring you get the right treatment. Call ForeFront Radiology to find out more or book an appointment online today.
Musculoskeletal Imaging Q & A
What is musculoskeletal imaging?
Musculoskeletal imaging is a specialty in radiology that focuses on the diagnosis of conditions affecting your musculoskeletal system, which includes:
- Bones
- Joints
- Cartilage
- Tendons
- Ligaments
- Muscles
- Nerves
Damage from injuries like muscle tears, fractures and dislocations, tendon strains, ligament sprains, torn cartilage, and trapped nerves is a common cause of musculoskeletal pain and dysfunction.
Degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis and osteoporosis, as well as diseases such as scoliosis (a congenital condition) and rheumatoid arthritis (an autoimmune disorder), also cause musculoskeletal problems.
Musculoskeletal imaging is one of the most useful diagnostic tools for patients experiencing symptoms of these conditions.
What musculoskeletal imaging technologies are there?
The types of musculoskeletal imaging technologies in use at ForeFront Radiology include:
X-rays
X-rays are the original form of diagnostic imaging and are still widely used, especially for diagnosing and assessing bone damage. Digital technology ensures modern X-rays are safer than ever before, and there are also advanced forms of X-ray like fluoroscopy (moving X-ray).
Computed tomography (CT) scans
CT uses X-ray technology to produce cross-sectional images of the inside of your body.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
MRI also produces detailed cross-sectional images but uses powerful magnets rather than X-rays.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves and is useful for looking at soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
As well as providing clear, accurate images for diagnosis, musculoskeletal imaging specialists also perform diagnostic tests such as bone and soft tissue biopsies and bone density studies.
ForeFront Radiology's fellowship-trained musculoskeletal imaging radiologists work in close cooperation with experts in orthopedic surgery, rheumatology, and sports medicine. They help with the evaluation and treatment of all musculoskeletal conditions.
How does musculoskeletal imaging help with treatment?
Musculoskeletal imaging is a vital aspect of many minimally invasive interventions, particularly injectable treatments.
Joint and spinal injections containing steroids and, in some cases, a local anesthetic, are a key aspect of treating many musculoskeletal disorders when the most conservative measures aren't working.
Image guidance, typically using fluoroscopy or ultrasound, ensures that the needle delivers your medication to precisely the right spot without causing avoidable damage.
Image guidance performs a similar function in other procedures, such as spinal cord stimulator, peripheral nerve stimulator, and intrathecal pain pump placement.
To find out more about ForeFront Radiology's exceptional musculoskeletal imaging facilities, call the office today or book an appointment online.