Therapy Focus: Ultrasound

Many people first encounter ultrasound when their doctors order it for imaging purposes, to aid in diagnosis. However, therapeutic ultrasound, a mainstay in physical therapy, uses high- and low-frequency sound waves to help relieve pain and restore function.

This painless, easily tolerated therapy can reduce inflammation, improve circulation to the affected area, and ease pain. The sound waves produce deep penetrating warmth to muscles and other tissue, causing them to relax. This action is especially effective for muscle cramps and spasms. The warmth also dilates blood vessels in the area, which improves circulation and speeds healing. Ultrasound can be effective in healing scar tissue, as well.

The procedure is quite simple. The therapist will apply a gel to the area needing treatment and then move a wand attached to the ultrasound machine over the affected area for a duration of time. The gel keeps the sound waves from dispersing into the air and focuses them on the injured area. The therapist will adjust the sound wave frequency for maximum benefit. Generally, a low frequency is used to penetrate deep tissue and a high frequency is used for more superficial injuries.

Therapeutic ultrasound can be an effective part of a plan of care to treat a variety of conditions, including soft tissue injuries, connective tissue strains and inflammation, arthritis, and others. Therapeutic ultrasound should not be used on pregnant women, cancerous tissue, broken bones, or on patients who suffer from an acute infection or are at great risk for vein thrombosis.

(At Abilene Physical Therapy, we believe that well-informed patients are better able to participate in their treatment and recovery. Periodically, we will offer new articles and links for your consideration so do check back!)

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