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Therapeutic Ultrasound

How it works, what it does and who it's for...

June 9, 2023


In our quest to provide the best treatments, we are excited to add therapeutic Ultrasound to our menu. Used by physical therapists, chiropractors, and Massage Therapists, ultrasound is a non-invasive and versatile tool to aid in restoring and improving physical function and mobility as well as reducing pain.
 

Understanding Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a high-frequency sound wave that cannot be heard by the human ear. In physical therapy, ultrasound machines emit these waves, which penetrate deep into the body's tissues, causing a vibration effect. The resulting thermal and mechanical
effects have several therapeutic benefits, making ultrasound an indispensable
tool for physical therapists.

The Benefits of Ultrasound in physical function, healing andpain relief:
 

  1. Pain Relief: Ultrasound therapy has shown significant efficacy in relieving
    pain. The high-frequency sound waves promote increased blood flow, which
    helps reduce inflammation and edema. By targeting pain receptors,
    ultrasound can provide both immediate and long-term pain relief, making it
    particularly useful for individuals with musculoskeletal injuries,
    arthritis, or chronic pain conditions.
  2. Tissue Healing, Regeneration: Ultrasound therapy accelerates the healing process
    by stimulating cell activity and promoting tissue regeneration. The
    increased blood flow and oxygen delivery to the injured area facilitate
    the removal of waste products and enhance the supply of nutrients to the
    tissues, fostering healing at a faster rate. This feature of ultrasound is
    especially beneficial for soft tissue injuries, such as sprains, strains,
    and tendonitis.
  3. Increased Flexibility and Range of Motion: Muscle tightness and restricted joint mobility
    are common issues faced by our clients. Ultrasound therapy aids in
    addressing these challenges by promoting the extensibility of soft
    tissues. The deep heating effect of ultrasound increases the elasticity of
    muscles, tendons, and ligaments, leading to improved flexibility and range
    of motion. This, in turn, enables patients to perform exercises more
    effectively and regain functional abilities. Done prior to massage, this
    also assists in muscle manipulation, results in greater benefit.
  4. Reduction of Scar Tissue: Ultrasound can assist in breaking down scar tissue and
    adhesions, making it a valuable tool in post-surgical rehabilitation and
    recovery.
  5. Enhanced Drug Delivery: Physical therapists often utilize ultrasound therapy in conjunctio with topical gels or creams to enhance the absorption and effectiveness of
    medicinal substances. The sound waves from the ultrasound machine
    facilitate the penetration of these substances into the deeper layers of
    the skin, muscles, and joints, maximizing their therapeutic benefits. This
    technique, known as phonophoresis, is especially helpful in managing
    inflammation and pain associated with conditions like bursitis and
    tendonitis. We like applying our mineral CBD products with an ultrasound treatment
    to maximize results.
  6. Non-Invasive and Safe: Ultrasound therapy is a non-invasive procedure that does not
    involve any surgical intervention. It is generally considered safe, with minimal risks.
    However, caution should be exercised to avoid using ultrasound on certain
    conditions, such as over tumors, fractures, or healing wounds, as directed
    by the therapist.

Conditions Therapeutic Ultrasound Helps With: Therapeuticultrasound is employed in the treatment of various conditions, including:
 

  • Musculoskeletal injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis
  • Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
  • Bursitis and synovitis
  • Myofascial pain syndrome
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Scar tissue and adhesions
  • Sports-related injuries


Contraindications and Precautions: While therapeuticultrasound is generally safe, there are a few contraindications and precautions
to consider:
 

  • Over areas with impaired circulation or vascular abnormalities
  • Over open wounds or lesions
  • Near vital organs, such as the eyes, reproductive organs, or the brain
  • Over tumors or areas of active bleeding
  • Over metal implants or pacemakers
  • During pregnancy, particularly in the abdominal and pelvic regions

 


References:
 

  1. Baker KG, Robertson VJ, Duck FA. A review of therapeutic ultrasound: biophysical
    effects. Phys Ther. 2001;81(7):1351-1358.
  2. Draper DO, Castel JC, Castel D. Rate of temperature increase in human muscle
    during 1MHz and 3MHz continuous ultrasound. J Orth


STAY TUNED FOR OUR NEXT POST: BENEFITS OF ULTRASOUND IN YOUR FACIAL