Ultrasound can be used to see muscles, tendons, and joints in the body.  When used during joint injections, ultrasound allows the practitioner to visualize the needle in real time as it enters the body, which increases the accuracy of delivery of the medication into the jointBeing able to see inside the joint means that tendons and nerves can be avoided therefore decreasing pain during the injection. Fluid around the joint that often impairs movement can easily be seen and removed.  Tendon and cartilage abnormalities can be identified without exposing the patient to radiation therefor making ultrasound safer than other imaging techniques