If you’ve been dealing with ongoing pain or injury, you may have been told you need a scan but it’s often not clear whether that should be an MRI or an ultrasound.
Patients often tell us:
“I just want to know what’s going on inside.”
The good news is that in many cases, the right scan can provide clarity but the best option depends on what structure we are looking at.
At Light Joints Physiotherapy, we offer musculoskeletal ultrasound assessment alongside expert physiotherapy and injection therapy where appropriate. We can also advise when MRI is more suitable and how to access it.
If you’re unsure which scan you need, we can guide you.
🔍 What’s the difference between ultrasound and MRI?
🩻 Ultrasound scan (MSK ultrasound)
Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce real-time moving images of soft tissue structures.
Best for:
tendons
ligaments
muscles
bursae
superficial soft tissue swelling
guiding injections
Not suitable for:
deep spinal discs
structures hidden behind bone
🧲 MRI scan
MRI uses strong magnets to create detailed static images of both soft tissue and bone.
Best for:
spine and discs
deeper joint structures
suspected stress fractures
more complex injuries
Less useful for dynamic movement assessment and immediate guided injections.
📊 Quick comparison table – Ultrasound vs MRI
| Feature | Ultrasound | MRI |
|---|---|---|
| Looks at | Muscles, tendons, ligaments, bursae | Bones, discs, deep joints, nerves |
| Shows movement in real time | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Injection guidance possible | ✅ Yes | ❌ No |
| Claustrophobia issues | ❌ No | ⚠️ Possible |
| Safe during pregnancy | ✅ Yes | ⚠️ Medical advice required |
| Metal implants | Usually safe | Sometimes contraindicated |
| Cost privately | Lower | Higher |
| Typical wait time private | Days | Weeks |
| On-the-spot explanation | ✅ Yes | ❌ Report delay |
🦵 Conditions where ultrasound is usually best
Ultrasound assessment is commonly used for:
rotator cuff problems
shoulder impingement/bursitis
frozen shoulder (capsule thickening signs)
tennis elbow / golfer’s elbow
Achilles tendinopathy
plantar fasciitis
quadriceps or hamstring tears
soft tissue swellings
guided cortisone injections
It is especially useful when the main question is:
“Is this tendon or soft tissue inflamed or torn?”
🧭 Conditions where MRI may be more appropriate
MRI may be advised for:
disc problems in the lower back
suspected nerve compression
persistent neurological symptoms
significant unexplained weakness
deep hip or spinal pain
stress fractures
At Light Joints Physiotherapy, if MRI is needed, we will:
explain why
guide you on NHS or private options
refer to appropriate medical professionals where required
🏥 NHS vs Private scanning – what’s the difference?
⏳ Waiting times & access
| Factor | NHS | Private |
|---|---|---|
| Referral needed? | GP or consultant | No GP referral for ultrasound assessment |
| Waiting time | Weeks to months | Days |
| Choice of scan type | Limited by pathway | Based on clinical need |
| Cost | Free | Patient funded |
| Follow-up | Variable | Immediate in-clinic explanation |
Private scanning does not replace NHS pathways — for some conditions, NHS referral is appropriate and necessary. We will advise honestly.
💉 Where do injections fit in?
Ultrasound is extremely useful when combined with steroid injections because:
inflamed structures are clearly visible
landmarks can be identified
the decision to inject vs physiotherapy is clearer
At Light Joints Physiotherapy we provide:
landmark-guided steroid injections
ultrasound-assisted decision making
physiotherapy rehabilitation afterwards
🧠 Do I need a scan at all?
Here’s the key point most people don’t get told:
👉 many musculoskeletal conditions do not need scanning to be treated effectively.
A skilled assessment often gives the answer.
Scans may be considered if:
symptoms persist longer than expected
severe weakness or red flag signs occur
diagnosis is unclear
you are considering an injection or surgery
injury mechanism was significant
At your appointment we will:
assess your condition
discuss whether imaging is needed
avoid unnecessary scans
arrange appropriate onward care
📍 Ultrasound assessment clinics in Leeds & Bradford
Appointments available at:
Rothwell, Leeds
Colton, Leeds (LS15 – Jetts Colton)
Greengates, Bradford
We regularly see patients from:
Temple Newsam • Halton • Whitkirk • Garforth • Crossgates • Seacroft • Thorpe Park • LS15 and surrounding areas.
🚨 When to seek urgent help
Seek urgent medical advice if your scan decision relates to:
loss of bladder or bowel control
numbness around the groin/saddle area
unexplained weight loss with back pain
fever with severe spine pain
rapidly worsening weakness
These symptoms are rare but important.
💬 Frequently asked questions
Do I need a GP referral?
No, you can self-refer to us privately.
Can I have ultrasound and injection on the same day?
Sometimes, depending on your assessment findings and clinical safety.
Will I definitely get a scan or injection?
Only if clinically appropriate, and only after full discussion.
What if I prefer not to have an injection?
That’s absolutely fine — many people recover very well with physiotherapy alone.
📍 Our Clinics in Leeds & Bradford
We provide physiotherapy, ultrasound, and steroid injections at:
Rothwell, Leeds
Colton, Leeds
Greengates, Bradford
We offer early morning, evening and Saturday appointments.
✅ Ready to get the right treatment for your pain?
You don’t need to keep guessing or waiting.
We will:
assess your condition
explain what’s causing the pain
use ultrasound if appropriate
recommend physiotherapy, injection, or both