Ultrasound: A Common Treatment Used in Physical Therapy
Ultrasound equipment generates high frequency sound waves. The sound waves are transmitted into a body part using a round-headed probe. The probe is gently swirled over the skin in the area to be treated. The sound waves travel deep into the tissue (e.g. muscle) creating gentle heat. The heat draws blood into the target tissue. Oxygen and nourishment are delivered and cell wastes are removed. Ultrasound helps to relieve pain, muscle spasm, and tightened joints. Feels a little tingly, but oh so good!
Ultrasound is a passive modality.
A supplement to the primary treatment (e.g. exercise). Passive modalities typically are used to relax the patient, a distraction from pain, and/or to warm muscles for exercise.
A supplement to the primary treatment (e.g. exercise). Passive modalities typically are used to relax the patient, a distraction from pain, and/or to warm muscles for exercise.
What is Ultrasound?
Ultrasound equipment generates high frequency sound waves that are transferred to a specific body area via a round-headed probe. The sound waves travel deep into tissue (e.g. muscles) creating gentle heat.The old version of today's ultrasound was termed short-wave diathermy. This is seldom used today.
How is treatment administered?
The Physical Therapist usually applies a hypo allergic gel to the skin, which creates a friction free surface. Using gentle, circular motions with the probe, the therapist administers the treatment, which lasts several minutes.
Ultrasound can also be used in Phonophoresis. This treatment involves the application of a topical anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory medication can be mixed with the ultrasound gel and applied to the area using the probe. The ultrasonic sound waves force the medication to migrate into the tissues reducing inflammation.
Ultrasound can also be used in Phonophoresis. This treatment involves the application of a topical anti-inflammatory. The anti-inflammatory medication can be mixed with the ultrasound gel and applied to the area using the probe. The ultrasonic sound waves force the medication to migrate into the tissues reducing inflammation.
Does the treatment hurt?
No. The patient will feel a tingling sensation in the treated area.
How does the patient benefit from Ultrasound?
As the probe glides over the skin's surface, sound waves penetrate the skin's surface causing soft tissues to vibrate creating deep heat. In turn, the heat induces vasodilation: drawing blood into the target tissues. Increased blood flow delivers needed oxygen and nutrients, and removes cell wastes.
The deep heat helps to relieve pain, inflammation, reduces muscle spasms, and accelerates healing. Depending on the treatment area, range of motion may be increased.