Podiatry tests and imaging

Podiatrists at Ascension Saint Thomas provide comprehensive tests and imaging for a range of foot, ankle and lower leg conditions.

Tests and imaging

Podiatrists at Ascension Saint Thomas in the Upper Cumberland region, provide comprehensive tests and imaging for a range of foot, ankle and lower leg conditions. These diagnostic services help find the cause of your foot, ankle and leg symptoms and guide your care plan.

A bone scan evaluates bone activity in the feet and ankles. A small amount of radioactive material is injected into the bloodstream, which collects in areas of increased bone activity. This imaging can help your podiatrist detect conditions that are not always visible on standard X-rays, such as stress fractures, bone infections (osteomyelitis), arthritis or tumors. Areas with higher uptake can indicate injury, inflammation or abnormal bone changes.

A CT scan uses X-rays and computer technology to create detailed images of the foot and ankle.

Diabetes-related foot testing helps identify nerve damage and poor circulation, which can increase the risk of foot ulcers. These tests check for loss of sensation and reduced blood flow. When sensation is diminished, small injuries or sores may go unnoticed, which is why early detection is important to help prevent complications.

Fluoroscopy is a type of podiatry imaging that provides real-time X-ray images of the foot and ankle. It allows your podiatrist to see bones and joints in motion to evaluate alignment and joint function. It is often used during procedures, such as guided injections, to improve accuracy and treatment outcomes.

Short for magnetic resonance imaging, an MRI uses magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues, bones and joints.

Musculoskeletal tests are hands-on exams your podiatrist uses to check how the bones, joints, muscles and tendons in your foot and ankle are functioning. During these tests, your provider may gently move your foot, apply pressure or ask you to perform certain movements to identify the source of pain, stiffness or weakness.

A neurological exam checks how well the nerves in your feet and ankles are working. Your provider may use small tools or light touch to assess sensation, reflexes and nerve response. These tests are painless and help identify nerve damage or loss of feeling.

A routine foot exam checks the overall health of your feet. During the test, your provider looks for changes in your skin, nails, circulation and sensation to help detect problems early.

Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of blood vessels, tissues and and other structures in the foot and ankle.

A vascular test is a simple, noninvasive test to check blood flow in your feet and ankles. These tests may include feeling your pulses or using a small device to measure circulation. They help identify reduced blood flow, which can affect healing and increase the risk of foot problems, especially for people with diabetes.