Sorry Desi, I just saw this query.
The differance between the ultrasound that is usually used in Physiotherapy and what I had is just that mine was called "real time" Ultrasound meaning they were watching the screen and getting vision at the same time as using the transducer. My physio does use a "real time" ultrasound machine anyway as he likes to see the condition of the tissue he is working on.
I had the ultrasound specifically as the treatment of knee effusions as I had, over a number of days become extremely swollen in my knee joints and was totally unable to bend them.
Ultrasound is painless usually, the only pain maybe from the pressing of the transducer onto painful RSD areas.
Take care
Tayla

Sue,
I don't blame you for not getting another one. I had 2. The first doc was gentle, the second doc hurt. Hopefully, I won't have to go through that again. Since I have a sister with MS, the docs keep checking me for it and want to know if there are any changes.

Tayla,
I'm still waiting on the doc to find out why she wants the ultrasound. My knees are particularly painful so I don't want anyone touching them if I don't absolutely have to.

Linmarie