Shoulder Ultrasound Scan

What Is a Shoulder Ultrasound Scan?

A shoulder ultrasound is a quick, safe, and detailed scan that uses high-resolution ultrasound imaging to assess the rotator cuff, tendons, muscles, bursa, ligaments, and surrounding soft tissues of the shoulder.

The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons that stabilise the shoulder. Shoulder ultrasound is one of the most commonly requested MSK scans, offering a dynamic, real-time assessment that can identify the cause of pain, stiffness, or limited movement.

Ultrasound is extremely safe with no radiation and no known risks.
There is no preparation required — you can eat, drink, and carry out normal activities before and after the scan.

If you have previous imaging or a doctor’s request form, bring them with you, but they are not required.

Why You May Need a Shoulder Ultrasound Scan

Sub-acromial Bursitis

The shoulder bursa is a small fluid-filled sac that allows smooth movement when lifting your arm. When inflamed, it can cause pain, especially when lifting the arm overhead.

Rotator Cuff Tears or Tendon Problems

Shoulder ultrasound is excellent for detecting:

• Tendon inflammation

• Partial tears

• Full-thickness tears

• Tendon degeneration
  These conditions often occur alongside bursitis, which can also be assessed during the scan.

Shoulder Impingement

Ultrasound allows dynamic assessment of tendon and bursa movement.
During the scan, your sonographer may ask you to move your arm — this helps confirm impingement by showing the bursa being “pinched” during movement.

Shoulder Calcific Tendonitis

Calcium deposits within the tendons can cause sudden or severe pain and restricted movement. Ultrasound identifies calcification clearly and helps rule out other causes such as rotator cuff tears.

Other Shoulder Conditions We Can Detect

• Frozen shoulder

• Biceps tendon pathology

• AC joint arthritis

• Post-injury inflammation

• Soft-tissue swelling or lumps

• Dynamic shoulder instability

Shoulder ultrasound is often used to guide treatment such as ultrasound-guided injections, though this is not part of the standard scan.

Three Common Causes of Shoulder Pain

Shoulder pain can arise from many conditions, but the most frequent include:

1. Muscle Strains

Often from lifting, gym training, DIY, or repetitive movements.

2. Tendon Injuries

Including tendonitis, small tears, or overuse injuries — common in athletes.

3. Bursitis / Impingement

Inflammation or pinching of the shoulder structures during movement.

Ultrasound is ideal for identifying these causes quickly.

Shoulder Ultrasound Scan – Price

Only £149

Includes:
✔ Expert MSK sonographer
✔ Full diagnostic scan
✔ Immediate explanation of results
✔ Same-day written report
✔ No consultation fee
✔ No hidden charges

What to Expect During Your Shoulder Scan

• A warm gel is applied to your shoulder

• The ultrasound probe is moved across the area to capture high-definition images

• You will see the images live on screen

• A dynamic assessment may be performed (movement of the arm)

• Your results are explained immediately

• You receive a same-day digital report

Preparation

• No specific preparation required

• Wear loose clothing to allow access to the shoulder

• If attending for an injection (not part of the basic scan), we advise not driving afterward

Why Choose MedHealth for Your Shoulder Ultrasound?

• All MSK scans £149 – no consultation fee

• Expert MSK sonographer with advanced clinical experience

• Clear, same-day results

• High-resolution, dynamic assessment

• Trusted by GPs, physiotherapists and sports clinicians

• Same-day or next-day appointments

• No GP referral needed

• Friendly, professional, patient-centred service

Shoulder Ultrasound FAQ

How much is a private shoulder ultrasound?

At MedHealth, all MSK ultrasound scans, including shoulder scans, cost £149.

How long does a shoulder ultrasound take?

The scan itself normally takes 10–15 minutes.
Your total appointment time is typically 20–30 minutes, including explanation of results.

Do I need a referral?

No — you can book directly.

Is there any preparation?

No preparation needed. Wear clothing that allows easy access to the shoulder.

Will I get my results immediately?

Yes — your expert sonographer explains your results during the appointment and provides a same-day report.

Price

£149