Lumps and Bumps Ultrasound scans
A lumps and bumps ultrasound scan is a fast, safe, and highly accurate way to assess soft-tissue swellings anywhere in the body. Ultrasound provides a real-time, high-resolution view of the lump, helping to determine whether it is fluid-filled, solid, cystic, inflamed, or related to a tendon, ligament, nerve, or joint. It is the first-line investigation for most soft-tissue masses and often avoids the need for further imaging.
Ultrasound is particularly useful for patients with:
A new or unexplained lump
A lump that is getting larger or more uncomfortable
Swelling following an injury
A cyst near a joint or tendon
A soft, mobile lump under the skin
A firm lump that feels deep or fixed
Painful lumps or recurrent swelling
Ongoing uncertainty despite physiotherapy or GP assessment
What a Lumps & Bumps Ultrasound Can Show
Ganglion Cysts
Clear visualisation of the cyst, whether it is simple or complex, and whether it communicates with a nearby joint or tendon sheath.
Lipomas (Fatty Lumps)
Identification of benign fatty tissue lumps and confirmation of their size, borders, and behaviour.
Fibromas & Benign Soft-Tissue Masses
Characterisation of small benign nodules or fibrous masses.
Bursae & Fluid Collections
Detection of inflamed or swollen bursae and pockets of fluid, often following injury or repetitive strain.
Epidermoid Cysts & Sebaceous Cysts
Evaluation of cyst structure, content, and any signs of rupture or inflammation.
Inflammatory Lumps
Assessment of swelling associated with infection, tenosynovitis, or inflamed soft tissue.
Haematoma or Post-Injury Swelling
Visualising fluid or blood collection following a fall, direct impact, or strain.
Foreign Bodies
Detection of small fragments (wood, metal, glass) embedded in the soft tissue.
Vascularity & Blood Flow
Power Doppler helps assess active inflammation, neovascularity, or unusual blood flow patterns.
Ultrasound provides clear, immediate information to help guide diagnosis and next steps.
Who This Scan Helps
This scan is ideal if you are experiencing:
A lump that is painful, enlarging, or persistent
A soft, mobile, or tender swelling under the skin
A firm or deep mass that feels unusual
Localised swelling following an injury
A lump around a joint, tendon, or bursa
Recurrent cysts or repeated flare-ups
Anxiety about an unexplained lump
Difficulty getting a clear diagnosis from clinical examination alone
Immediate Results + Treatment Options
You will receive:
A verbal explanation of the findings during the scan
A full written report with images
A discussion of treatment options, which may include:
Reassurance for benign findings
Activity or load modification advice
Aspiration of cysts (if appropriate and clinically indicated)
Ultrasound-guided steroid injection (for inflammatory bursae or recurrent cysts)
Monitoring advice for stable or harmless lumps
Referral for MRI, surgical opinion, or further imaging if required