Calf ultrasound scan
Pain, swelling or a lump in your calf can affect your daily life. Ultrasound can help you understand what is going on, whether it follows an injury, exercise or something more gradual.
- Price
- £300 one side£450 both sides · £50 deposit
- Appointment
- 20 to 30 minutesIncluding consultation · scan less than 20 minutes
- Preparation
- None needed
- Report
- Usually within 24 hours
Who it's for
When a scan can help
This scan is for anyone with calf pain, tightness after exercise, bruising, swelling or a lump in the lower leg.
What it shows
The scan checks for
- Muscle tears and strains
- Tendon injuries and degeneration (including Achilles tendon)
- Swelling or fluid collections
- Blood clots (DVT screening if needed)
- Soft tissue lumps or bumps
- Inflammation or infection
- Post-injury recovery progress
What to expect
Your appointment
Before
No preparation is needed.
During
You’ll lie down on a couch, usually face down on your tummy. A small amount of gel is placed on your skin. The doctor moves a handheld probe over the area to view the muscles and tendons in real time. The scan usually takes less than 20 minutes.
After
You can return to your day straight afterwards. Your consultant explains what they have seen before you leave.
Who reads your scan
Consultant radiologists, specialists in this area
Your report
Your consultant talks you through what the scan shows while you are still in the room.
A written report follows, usually within 24 hours. If anything needs a closer look, we can arrange MRI, CT, blood tests or a specialist referral.
Frequently asked questions
Should I get a calf scan?
A calf scan helps diagnose muscle and tendon problems or check for fluid, swelling, or injury. It can also be used to rule out more serious conditions like a blood clot.
Sometimes further imaging such as MRI is necessary to assess the bones and soft tissue structures of the calf. Our specialists can decide whether further investigations are required and can arrange this for you at the time of the scan.
What symptoms are related to calf issues?
Common symptoms include pain, swelling, bruising, stiffness, or a lump in the lower leg. You might also have trouble walking or feel tightness after exercise.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you have calf pain or swelling, if you notice a lump or can’t walk properly. If the calf is red or warm, or you’re worried about a clot, don’t wait.
Is it safe?
Ultrasound uses sound waves, not radiation, and has no known side effects. A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and a handheld probe is moved gently over the area. You can return to your day straight afterwards.
Enquire or book
Tell us what you would like looked at and we will come back to you with times. You do not need a referral.