Lower Limb Ultrasound: Practical Landmarks of the Knee and Calf–Achilles Complex
Tiago ALMENDRA, Sofia COSTA and Alberto GALÁN
Lower-limb musculoskeletal complaints are a frequent reason for consultation in primary care and often present diagnostic challenges. Clinical examination alone may not reliably differentiate muscle injury, joint effusion and tendon pathology. Point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) provides a safe and radiation-free extension of the physical examination, improving diagnostic accuracy and supporting timely clinical decision-making. However, access to practical PoCUS training tailored to the needs of family medicine remains limited. This workshop aims to address this educational gap by focusing on essential ultrasound concepts and key anatomical landmarks for the assessment of the knee and the calf–Achilles complex in primary care.Participants will be able to: – Recognise normal sonoanatomy of key lower-limb structures relevant to primary care; – Perform a focused knee ultrasound to assess joint effusion and periarticular tendons; – Acquire standard ultrasound views of the gastrocnemius–soleus complex and Achilles tendon; – Recognise common pathological patterns, including muscle tears, joint effusion and tendinopathy.The workshop will use a structured, case-based approach. Participants will discuss clinical cases integrating symptoms, physical examination and ultrasound findings to support diagnostic reasoning. Teaching will be supported by the presentation of selected ultrasound images and short video clips. The session will conclude with live ultrasound demonstrations performed by the presenters, emphasising probe positioning, landmark identification and dynamic assessment techniques. This approach is designed to promote safe practice and immediate applicability in routine primary care. Workshop schedule: – Introduction and clinical relevance of lower-limb PoCUS – Anterior knee: joint effusion and periarticular tendons – Triceps surae and Achilles tendon – Practical demonstration – Key messages and discussionParticipants will gain clear, practical landmarks and high-yield tips for lower-limb ultrasound assessment, improving diagnostic confidence and facilitating integration of PoCUS into everyday primary care consultations.This workshop provides a concise and clinically focused introduction to lower-limb ultrasound for family physicians, emphasising essential landmarks and practical skills to enhance patient assessment and management in primary care settings.
