Three consultant radiologists have established Wales' first private high street ultrasound clinic of its kind.

Now open on Stanwell Road as part of Acorn Clinic, Acorn Ultrasound offers consultant-led, private ultrasound scans to those with musculoskeletal concerns such as painful joints and muscles, sports injury and worrying lumps.

They offer diagnostic scans as well as ultrasound guided pain relief injection such as cortisone and PRP.

They hope to diagnose patients who may have been placed on long waiting lists for non-urgent scans as a result of the pandemic, ultimately leading to quicker diagnosis and treatment.

The backlog of people awaiting treatment across the UK is said to be as high as 4.7 million.

Led by medical director and NHS radiologist Dr Syed Junaid, the clinic invites patients to book an ultrasound appointment online. Prices begin at £195 for a diagnostic ultrasound, making them the most affordable private consultant ultrasound service in Wales.

Patient's can self-refer using the website and fill a short form to assess suitability of ultrasound for their condition.

Patients requiring injection therapy will need a referral from their doctor or another healthcare professional, which is also done through the website.

"Ultrasound is very good at diagnosing a number of diseases, especially involving joints and muscles," Dr Junaid told Nub News.

"The amazing thing about it is that it doesn't have any radiation, but it also gives a good idea about lots of conditions.

"Unfortunately, due to the COVID crisis, lots of patients are waiting several months on the NHS to get an ultrasound, and often their conditions are quite serious or deteriorate.

"The problem isn't the Hospitals - the NHS is doing an amazing job. It's just the way the world is at the moment. There's a huge backlog and what patients are doing is looking for alternatives.

"Now they can access the same high level of care from consultants like myself who have trained for many of years.

"Other ultrasound private clinics are in hospitals, but we are the first to bring care right onto the high street."

Through acquiring their £50,000 Samsung ultrasound machine, Dr Junaid and his two partners think they have established the first practice of its kind in the Wales.

Although they currently only offer musculoskeletal treatment, they are in the process of applying for authorisation to see other conditions.

"We will be adding other ailments such as gynaecological problems and abdominal issues soon. We're already qualified to do them, but we are regulated by the Health Inspectorate Wales.

"We've applied for it and will get it, but the process takes a while."

Dr Syed is confident that the nationally unique nature of his practice will translate to high footfall and ultimately help many residents on the path to better health.

To book an appointment, visit the clinic's website.

If you are unsure about whether your symptoms are suitable, contact Acorn on 02921999300 or email [email protected].