Most people are familiar with “diagnostic” ultrasound which is a non-invasive method employed to image organs within the body, without radiation. Less common is the awareness of this technology as a therapeutic tool. Diagnostic ultrasound uses sound waves to create an image, whereas therapeutic ultrasound uses sound waves as the treatment.

Therapeutic ultrasound is a common modality that has been used in the healthcare industry for several decades. While once used mainly in sports and athletic rehabilitation, its use has become commonplace for the treatment of musculo-skeletal conditions, back and joint conditions, soft tissue injuries, decreased range of motion problems and for certain chronic conditions. The treatment increases blood flow, relaxes muscle spasms, repairs damaged tissue and speeds the healing process. It assists in the repair of both hard and soft tissues. It can be used to break up scar tissue, adhesions and reduce nerve root irritation. Its effectiveness has been enhanced over the years by studies that helped determine optimum techniques for application.

Ultrasound treatments are administered directly to the skin of the affected area with the use of gel as its conduction medium. It also can be performed by immersing the affected area in water. The water immersion method is best suited for hands and feet and other small, bony areas. Both methods provide a painless rehabilitative modality.

As with any medical treatment, therapeutic ultrasound should only be administered by a trained practitioner to assure its safety and effectiveness.