Limb lumps and bumps ultrasound scan
If you’ve noticed a lump, bump, or swelling under your skin, it’s important to understand what it is. An ultrasound gives fast answers by showing the structure and behaviour of the lump in real time, and whether treatment can be provided at the same appointment.
- Price
- £300£50 deposit
- Appointment
- 20 to 30 minutesIncluding consultation · scan about 10 to 15 minutes
- Preparation
- None needed
- Report
- Usually within 24 hours
Who it's for
When a scan can help
If you find a lump or swelling near a joint or under the skin, this scan helps show what it is. It can help rule out serious causes and give you peace of mind. Sometimes further imaging such as MRI is necessary to assess the lump in a different way. However, our specialists can decide whether further imaging is necessary and can arrange this for you at the time of the appointment.
What it shows
The scan checks for
- Lipomas (fatty lumps)
- Ganglion cysts
- Fluid collections
- Swollen bursae (bursitis)
- Enlarged lymph nodes
- Benign soft tissue growths
- Signs of infection or inflammation
What to expect
Your appointment
Before
No preparation is needed.
During
You’ll lie or sit comfortably and a small amount of gel is applied to your skin. The doctor will glide a handheld probe over the lump to take images. The scan usually takes about 10 to 15 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
Why should I have a muscle and joint scan for any lumps or bumps?
If you find a lump or swelling near a joint or under the skin, this scan helps show what it is. It can help rule out serious causes and give you peace of mind. Sometimes further imaging such as MRI is necessary to assess the lump in a different way. However, our specialists can decide whether further imaging is necessary and can arrange this for you at the time of the appointment.
What symptoms are related to lumps and bumps?
You may notice a soft or firm lump under your skin. It may be painless or tender, and it might grow or change over time.
When should I see a doctor?
Get checked if the lump is painful, growing, changing shape, or feels firm or fixed in place. Also seek help if you’ve had an injury or if the swelling lasts more than a few days.
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.