Ultrasound is a form of heat treatment for soft tissue injuries. It is used to treat joint and muscle strains, bursitis, and tendonitis.
Ultrasound treatment is used to:
- relieve pain and inflammation
- speed healing
- reduce muscle spasms and
- increase range of motion
Ultrasound makes high frequency sound waves. The sound waves vibrate tissues deep inside the injured area. This creates heat that draws more blood into the tissues. The tissues then respond to healing nutrients brought in by the blood and the repair process begins.
Treatment is given with a soundhead that is moved gently in strokes or circles over the injured area. It lasts just a few minutes. The procedure may be performed with the soundhead alone or combined with a topical anti-inflammatory drug or gel.