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Ultrasonic Treatment for Arthritis

Ultrasonic treatments, or ultrasound, are a lesser-used but often cheaper and faster alternative to lengthy MRIs and X-rays. Despite the benefits, ultrasounds are often better as a supplementary tool and cannot replace traditional remedies.

  1. Function

    • Ultrasound treatments help doctors diagnose the amount of inflammation in the joints, according to a report on WSOCTV.com. A computer then determines inflammation levels based on sound waves bounced off the joints.

    Benefits

    • Physicians typically use X-rays and magnetic resonance imaging to diagnose arthritis, but these methods cannot determine the extent of inflammation.

    Time Frame

    • An ultrasound is the quickest method to determine if you have arthritis. Treatments usually take five to 10 minutes in a physician's office, according to WSOCTV.

    Misconceptions

    • Ultrasound treatments do not cure arthritis. Doctors do sometimes use ultrasound to help them draw fluids out of the joints and track the progression of arthritis therapy.

    Disadvantages

    • Although ultrasound is quicker and cheaper than other diagnostic methods, it cannot see the health of the bones like an X-ray can. If a doctor suspects bone damage, the patient will still need an MRI or X-ray.

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