Nerve tracing ultrasound scan
When nerves are injured or compressed, they can cause pain, tingling, or weakness. Nerve tracing uses ultrasound to follow the path of a nerve through muscle and other tissues. This helps find the site of irritation or damage. An ultrasound scan is quick, safe, and done by specialist doctors.
- Price
- £350£50 deposit
- Appointment
- 20 to 30 minutesIncluding consultation · scan about 15 to 30 minutes
- Preparation
- None needed
- Report
- Usually within 24 hours
Who it's for
When a scan can help
If you have numbness, tingling, burning, or pain that spreads along an arm or leg, this scan may help. It can show if a nerve is being squeezed, scarred, or damaged, and where.
What it shows
During the scan, your doctor will check your nerves for
- Nerve entrapment or compression
- Post-surgical nerve damage
- Swelling or inflammation around a nerve
- Scar tissue or adhesions
- Nerve injuries
- Abnormal nerve path or shape
- Localising symptoms like pins and needles to a nerve
What to expect
Your appointment
Before
No preparation is needed.
During
You’ll lie or sit in a comfortable position. A clear gel is placed on your skin. The doctor uses a small probe to trace the nerve and take pictures. You may be asked to move the limb. The scan usually takes 15 to 30 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
Can you see nerve damage on an ultrasound?
Yes. Ultrasound creates a dynamic view of your body, allowing consultants to see in real time if there is any signs of damage or impingement on nerves, especially during movement.
Why should I get a scan for my nerves?
If you have numbness, tingling, burning, or pain that spreads along an arm or leg, this scan may help. It can show if a nerve is being squeezed, scarred, or damaged, and where.
What symptoms are related to nerve issues?
- Tingling or pins and needles
- Shooting pain along a limb
- Numbness or weakness
- Burning or electric shock feeling
- Muscle loss or shrinking
- Pain after surgery
When should I see a doctor?
If symptoms don’t go away or get worse over time, speak to your doctor. If you have sudden weakness, loss of control over bladder or bowel, or fast-spreading numbness, get urgent help.
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.