What Does Therapeutic Ultrasound Do?

Therapeutic ultrasound is used in physical therapy as a method of treating pain and injury. High frequency sound waves penetrate into connective tissue. The heat and increased cellular activity they produce are said to speed the healing process, according to the MD Guidelines website.

Indications for Use

Sports medicine specialists use therapeutic ultrasound to treat symptoms of pain and spasms from musculoskeletal ailments, and it also helps deliver anti-inflammatory drugs to affected areas, according to the MD Guidelines website.

Other Effects

The increased local activity and metabolism in treated areas gradually boosts the flexibility and fluid permeability of structures like ligaments, tendons, joint capsules scars and adhesions, according to MemorialHospital.org. Ultrasound can be used to treat chronic as well as acute problems.

Combined Treatment Plan

Therapeutic ultrasound is best used as part of a physical therapy plan that combines other treatments like stretching, mobilization and supportive exercise, according to MemorialHospital.org. Some providers believe therapeutic ultrasound should be used only when traditional treatment is not effective, according to MD Guidelines.

References

• Memorial Hospital: Ultrasound
• MD Guidelines: Ultrasound, Therapeutic