Ultrasound therapy is a therapeutic application of high frequency sound waves (above the hearing range). Ultrasound preferentially heats deeper tissues without discomfort to the patient.

The use of ultrasound as a therapeutic modality goes back to the 1940s and 1950’s when it was first utilized in the treatment of arthritic pains, asthma, thyrotoxicosis, hemorrhoids, urinary incontinence and Meniere’s disease.

How does Ultrasound work?

Ultrasound may induce thermal and non-thermal physical effects in tissues. Thermal energy made by ultrasound goes through the tissue and produces a level of heat which is dependent on the thickness of the tissue. It reduces inflammation and increases mobility in the joints. Thermal effects of ultrasound include increased blood flow, reduction in muscle spasm, and increased extensibility of collagen fibers. As a thermal agent, this modality can increase the tissue temperature to depths of 5 cm or more. Ultra sound also can increase membrane permeability, increasing ion exchange.

Non-thermal effects of ultrasound are cavitation and acoustic microstreaming. Cavitation is considered to be beneficial to injured tissue. Acoustic microstreaming, the unidirectional movement of fluids along cell membranes, has been suggested to stimulate tissue repair. Effects of cavitation and microstreaming that have been demonstrated in vitro include stimulation of fibroblast repair and collagen synthesis, tissue regeneration and bone healing.

Ultrasound Therapy Benefits

Several studies have proven the effectiveness of ultrasound therapy in the treatment of muscular skeletal disorders.

Therapeutic ultrasound is one of the most common treatments used in the management of soft tissue problems. It enhances recovery from musculoskeletal disorders as a result of its mechanical, thermal and chemical effects.

Ultrasound as a therapeutic modality for pain relief is applied through the skin overlying the painful area.

Ultrasound is indicated to treat soft tissue shortening (joint contractures, scarring); subacute and chronic inflammation; painful conditions, including muscle guarding; neuroma; trigger points and warts.

Ultrasound Therapy Contraindications

1. Poor arterial circulation.
2. Bleeding
3. Skin infection
4. Pregnancy
5. Cancer
6. Do not use it over the carotid sinus, brain, spinal cord, testes, ovaries
7. Thrombophlebitis