Therapeutic Ultrasound
Therapeutic ultrasound refers generally to any type of ultrasonic procedure that uses ultrasound for therapeutic benefit. Ultrasound is a method of stimulating the tissue beneath the skin's surface using very high frequency sound waves which cannot be heard by humans.
Ultrasound is applied using a transducer or applicator that is in direct contact with the patient's skin. Gel is used on all surfaces of the head to reduce friction and assist transmission of the ultrasonic waves. The waves are absorbed primarily by connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, fascia, and also by scar tissue.
Conditions which ultrasound may be used for include: Ligament Sprains, Muscle Strains, Tendonitis, Joint Inflammation, Plantar fasciitis, Metatarsalgia, Facet Irritation and Scar Tissue Adhesion.
The primary benefits to ultrasound include the speeding up of the healing process and the decrease in pain from the reduction of swelling and edema. These benefits are achieved by two main effects of therapeutic ultrasound. The two types of effects are: thermal and mechanical effects. Thermal effects are due to the absorption of the sound waves. Mechanical effects are from cavitation, microstreaming and acoustic streaming.
Cavitational effects result from the vibration of the tissue causing microscopic bubbles to form, which transmit the vibrations in a way that directly stimulates cell membranes. This physical stimulation appears to enhance the cell-repair effects of the inflammatory response. Studies have proven that Ultrasound helps in enhancing the metabolic activities of cells. Thus, ultrasound treatment helps in tissue repair, especially in soft tissue injuries (Ravi Patel, B.P.T)[Ref: Kerry G Baker, Valma J Robertson and Francis A Duck, Journal of Physical therapy.2001 July;Vol. 81(7):1851-1858].
Continuous ultrasound has also been shown to be effective in detecting stress fractures and increased healing of fractures in athletes. These features are very useful in the clinical Athletic Training setting for early detection of serious injuries, and quicker healing times.
In short, Ultrasound...
Stirs up molecules in tissues, producing deep heat (1-2 inches into tissues).
Increases blood flow, which brings healing nutrients to the injured area.
Stimulates cellular protein production, thereby stimulating the healing process.
Improves elasticity/flexibility of muscles and tendons.
Increases macrophage activity. Macrophages are special cells that clean up debris in an injured area.
Reduces scar tissue and reduces inflammation.
Increases collagen formation (collagen is a protein that makes up ligaments and tendons).
Increases fibroblast activity. Fibroblasts are reparative cells that appear 3-5 days after injury. They produce important proteins and form new collagen.