Ultrasound

Ultrasound uses high-frequency, sound waves to treat a variety of soft tissue injuries. It is applied using a wand that is placed in direct contact with the skin, immersed in water or using the bladder technique (water balloon). Initially, you will feel the coolness of the gel used to improve conduction following with a warm feeling beneath your skin in the region being treated.

How it works is the high-frequency sound waves are directed to soft tissues and joints, the rise in temperature increases blood flow to the injured area, reduces muscle spasms, modulation of pain and decreases joint stiffness. Ultrasound can be looked at as a form of deep tissue micro-massage, helping reduce swelling, increase blood flow, decrease pain, reduce joint stiffness and stimulate cell-repair.

A typical ultrasound treatment is about 7-10 minutes. However, in cases where scar tissue is present, treatment time can be longer. During the treatment, the ultrasound probe is kept in constant motion.

Ultrasound should not be applied over reproductive organs, areas where there are malignancies, metal implants below the area treated, acute infection, vascular insufficiencies and on the abdomen of pregnant women.