Ultrasound Therapy: Being one with the wave...
Ultrasound Therapy is a well-known and commonly used treatment protocol in our day and age. Being one of many advanced therapeutic machines in our clinic, Ultrasound Therapy is a treatment method used to target and treat soft tissue trauma. Using high-frequency sound waves (which is not heard by the human ear), this protocol can benefit tissue trauma in the following ways:
Increases/speeds up the healing response by providing a better supply of blood flow to the affected area
Decreases high pain levels
Reduces swelling/edema in and around the affected area
Breaks down scar tissue formation
The science behind the Soundwave:
Ultrasound waves are known to be generated by a piezoelectric effect caused by the vibration of crystals within the probe of the machine. A piezoelectric effect is an electrical charge formed by materials (in this case crystals). Stress is applied to these crystals which is form by the greek term Piezo, which means squeeze/push. The sound waves which pass through the superficial skin cause a vibration of surrounding tissues. The vibration can cause heat, although the patient may not necessarily feel the heat. (physical therapy articles & resources, physicaltherapyweb.com)
What injuries can Ultrasound Therapy treat?
Ultrasound Therapy can is proven to be effective for the following conditions:
Muscle Tendonitis
Muscle Strains
Ligaments Sprains
Scar Tissue Formation
Oedema/inflammation
Bursitis
Thorough patient history and a group of assessments is a key factor prior to receiving Ultrasound Therapy. There are obvious precautions and contraindications that would prevent an individual from receiving Ultrasound therapy, regardless of the severity of their symptoms. The patient will be unable to undergo Ultrasound therapy if they are pregnant, suffering from malignant/cancerous tissue, suffering from an acute infection, or has a history of severe ischemic tissue in the body. It must also not be used in or around a suspected fracture of a bone.
How long is the treatment process?
The duration of Ultrasound Therapy depends on the stage of which the injury is at, the size of the Ultrasound probe which delivers the sound waves, and the size of the injury site. A duration of time is normally worked out by the specialist on the day of treatment.
On average, how many Ultrasound sessions would a patient need to overcome an injury?
There is not usually a timeline as to how many Ultrasound sessions a patient would need to overcome an injury. Ultrasound Therapy is one treatment protocol known to be effective to reduce the symptoms of an injury, and to promote a quicker healing response. It is also key to record how well the patient response to Ultrasound therapy, which may coincide with the help of other beneficial treatment protocols.
Who would the patient have to see for Ultrasound Therapy?
Here at Perfect Balance Clinic, we have a variety of specialists who are trained and qualified to provide Ultrasound Therapy. These range from Physiotherapists, Sports Therapists, and Osteopaths. Our therapist will provide a thorough clinical analysis, provide this form of treatment if deemed necessary.
For more information about Ultrasound Therapy
If you would like additional information about this or to discuss how we may be able to help with your queries please contact us using the form below and we will get back to you as soon as possible.