"Traditionally, we use our fingers to feel the joint and see if there is inflammation or swelling," said Dimitrios Pappas, MD, a rheumatologist at the hospital. Physicians then let the ultrasound guide them as they inject medication or drain fluid, he said.

The ultrasound is inexpensive and can be done immediately at a patient's bedside, which eliminates the need for an x-ray or an MRI. "We can do it having a patient moving, we can see the joint in motion," said Dr. Pappas.

Related Articles on Pain Management:

Missouri Nurses Should Administer Pain Treatments, FTC Says
Texas Town Expecting First Pain Management Surgery Center
Sutter Lakeside Hospital Closes Pain Management Program