Leg ultrasound (including Doppler) shows vein and artery structure and blood flow, detecting deep vein thrombosis, venous reflux or arterial blockages. It also identifies soft-tissue problems such as muscle or tendon tears, hematomas, fluid collections or Baker’s cysts, and helps evaluate swelling or limb ischemia. It can guide needle aspiration or catheter procedures and monitor treatment response.

A leg Doppler (venous/arterial duplex ultrasound) is non‑invasive and usually painless. A warm gel and handheld probe are used; you may feel light pressure or mild discomfort if an area is tender, inflamed, or has varicose veins. The test is quick (often 15–45 minutes), involves no radiation, and requires no recovery. Tell the sonographer if you experience significant pain.

Costs vary by country and setting: in India roughly ₹800–3,000 at private labs; in the UK it’s free on the NHS but private clinics charge about £100–£300; in the US typical billed amounts range from about $200–$2,000 depending on facility, complexity and insurance. Always check local clinic fees and your insurer’s coverage.

To prepare for a leg ultrasound: wear loose clothing or shorts and remove jewelry; you may need to change into a gown and remove compression stockings. Do not apply lotions or creams to your legs. Fasting is usually unnecessary; avoid smoking for a few hours beforehand if possible. Bring ID, your referral and prior imaging, and tell staff about medications, especially anticoagulants or recent procedures.

Doctors order a leg ultrasound to evaluate blood vessels and blood flow, especially to detect deep vein thrombosis (DVT) when there’s pain, swelling, redness, warmth, or sudden shortness of breath. It also assesses peripheral arterial disease, venous insufficiency or varicose veins, unexplained leg swelling, wounds or post‑operative complications, and helps guide treatments like clot removal or stent placement.

Symptoms of a blocked artery in the leg include aching, cramping or burning pain in the calf, thigh or buttock when walking (claudication) that eases with rest; leg numbness, weakness, or a heavy feeling; cold or pale/blue skin, slow-healing sores or ulcers, decreased hair growth and weak or absent foot pulses. Sudden severe pain, numbness and loss of pulse indicate an acute blockage and need emergency care.