What Is Ultrasonic Therapy?

Ultrasonic therapy, also called ultrasound therapy, uses sound waves to treat injured body parts. Ultrasonic therapy is a method of physical therapy that works through vibrations which heats up body tissue.

History

Ultrasonic therapy was developed in the 1930s after the discovery of therapeutic effects of sound waves on human tissue.

Types

There are two types of ultrasonic therapy; Thermal Ultrasound Therapy, which utilizes continuous transmission of sound waves, and Mechanical Ultrasound Therapy, which uses pulses of sound waves to treat scar tissue and swelling caused by sprains and strains.

The Process

Ultrasonic therapy machines use vibrations to deliver sound waves through the body. The machines control the pulses of sound waves entering the body.

Warning

This version of physical therapy should be conducted by somebody trained to use ultrasonic therapy. If used incorrectly, ultrasonic therapy can cause bone damage.

Considerations

Pregnant women should not use ultrasonic therapy on their abdomen. Also, ultrasonic therapy should not be used to treat undiagnosed pain or infected areas.

References

• Mondofacto: Ultrasonic Therapy
• Ultrasound Therapy Source