The Effects of Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy is a form of physical therapy. It is used to help alleviate joint and muscle aches, pain and other soft tissue injuries. Ultrasound waves are high frequency sound waves that are produced by mechanical vibration. It promotes deep tissue warming and relaxation, which helps circulation, inflammation and muscle spasms. The frequency is typically between 0.8 to 3 megahertz.

Thermal Effect

• The ultrasound waves target collagen in the tissues, which increases heat. The heat helps to reduce pain and spasms, which is beneficial to musculoskeletal injuries.

Pulsed Wave

• Pulsed or intermittent wave therapy is used when heat therapy is contraindicated, such as wound care. It helps to repair surrounding tissues.

Anti-Inflammatory

• The anti-inflammatory effects of ultrasound therapy can help relieve stiffness and pain of inflamed muscles and nerves. It is also useful in the treatment of traumatic injuries.

Ablation

• Therapeutic ultrasounds can also be used to kill harmful tissue such as tumors, fibroids, kidney stones, gallstones and some cases of cancer.

Diagnostic Ultrasound

• Diagnostic ultrasounds use lower intensity waves and are used to create images of internal structures for viewing purposes.