Ultrasound in the diagnosis of noninflammatory musculoskeletal conditions.

Sonography is an attractive tool for the diagnosis of musculoskeletal conditions. The clinician can evaluate the anatomic segment during active and/or passive flexion and extension maneuvers, and its real-time capability allows imaging in positions that trigger symptoms. Scanning the contralateral asymptomatic extremity can be used as a reference for normal anatomy in a given patient. A common application of ultrasound is for the assessment of rotator cuff tendons. It can also be used to assess soft tissue infections, nerve pathology, and various sports-related injuries.