Ultrasound uses a high frequency sound wave emitted from the sound head when electricity is passed through a quartz crystal. The sound waves cause the vibration of water molecules deep within tissue causing a heating effect. When the sound waves are pulsed, they cause a vibration of the tissue rather than heating. The stream of sound waves helps with nutrition exchange at the cellular level and healing. Studies have shown that ultrasound is helpful for ligament healing and clinically, for carpal tunnel syndrome, and muscle spasm.
How is ultrasound therapy performed?
A transmission coupling gel is applied to the ultrasound transducer (sound head) of the ultrasound probe of an ultrasound unit or on your skin. The sound head of the probe is then placed in direct contact with your skin and moved in small circular direction over and around the affected area. The sonic waves cause a vibration of the water molecules deep within tissue. Although the tissue is not heated in an ultrasound session, the treatment works similar to a deep heat massage in the muscles and joints. Ultrasound increases the blood flow to the injured area being treated, brings nutrients to it and carries away waste. This process promotes healing and decreases swelling to inflamed joints and soft tissue.
Is ultrasound therapy safe?
Ultrasound does not use radiation, as X-Rays do. So it is safe for imaging and treating areas where radiation sensitivity is a concern. It has been used for years in gynecology to examine female pelvic organs and in obstetrics to determine the gestational age and level of fetal development, confirm fetal viability, determine the presence or absence of birth defects and for other internal examinations, such as an examination for foreign bodies or to evaluate calcific deposits. Physical and occupational therapists have used thermal and mechanical ultrasound therapy to treat acute and chronic pain conditions since 1940.
How long do the treatments last?
Ultrasound treatments typically last 5-10 minutes for each area being treated.
What conditions are treated by ultrasound therapy?
Ultrasound is used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions including:
- Chornic pain
- Muscle, ligament and tendon tears
- Bursitis and tendinitis of the rotator cuff in the shoulder, Achilles tendon in the ankle and other tendons throughout the body
- Bursae and joint inflammation or fluid (effusions)
- Early changes in rheumatoid arthritis
- Nerve impingements/entrapments and other nerve conditions
- Knee conditions, such as Patellar Tendonitis, ACL tear, Meniscal tear, IT Band Syndrome, Popliteal Tendinitis and Baker’s Cyst
- Foot conditions, such as Plantar Fasciitis, Metatarsalgia and tendon/ligament sprains and strains
- Cartilage defects in the knee at the femoral condyle and meniscus
- Cartilage defects in the labrum of the shoulder and hip
- Inflammatory joints disease, such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)
For more information on ultrasound or to set up an appointment, call us today.
