Effects
According the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, ultrasound therapy is used to treat conditions such as bursitis, tendinitis and joint and muscle strains.
The high-frequency sound waves of an ultrasound accelerate the healing process, decrease muscle spasms, improve range of motion and diminish pain and inflammation.
Ultrasound therapy is frequently used by a variety of health care providers including physical therapists and trainers. It is commonly used in conjunction with a physical therapy regimen of stretches and exercises. It is recommended that muscles and soft tissues around the treatment area be stretched out prior to undergoing ultrasound therapy.
Procedure
Ultrasound therapy is generally performed on an outpatient basis. A topical anti-inflammatory gel referred to as a coupling medium is applied to the skin before treatment begins.The University of Michigan Health System says a unique machine that emits sound waves (the frequency is too high to be picked up by human ears) provides heat that vibrates soft tissues deep within the traumatized area. A probing device called a soundhead is lightly stroked over the area of injury in repetitive movements. This warmth attracts more blood into the tissues, causing them to react favorably to the remedial nutrients carried in by the blood, which paves the way for the healing process to occur.
Post Treatment
Once the ultrasound therapy is complete, the contact gel is removed from your skin. The muscle and soft tissue surrounding the area of treatment should once again be stretched out. Ultrasound treatments help to heal the injured area by increasing blood flow and improving tissue elasticity. An ultrasound treatment typically takes less than 15 minutes. Therapy can be performed up to twice a day to treat serious injuries and less often for chronic conditions.
Precautions
Although rare, the risks associated with ultrasound therapy include soft tissue and bone burns, swelling and bleeding problems.
Ultrasound therapy is not recommended for cancerous tissue, severely ischaemic (insufficient supply of blood to an organ, usually due to a blocked artery) tissue, when a bone fracture is suspected or during pregnancy.
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