Ultrasound and Physical Therapy

Ultrasound or “Ultrasonography” is usually seen by many as a procedure meant for pregnancy; however, it is used for many medical procedures and can be very beneficial when used to treat musculoskeletal issues such as muscle spasms, tissue injury, and pain. In physical therapy, the ultrasound machine works by sending an electrical current through crystals found in an ultrasound probe or “wand.” This causes the wand to vibrate, causing waves to travel throughout the skin to the tissues underneath; this then causes waves to transfer energy to the tissue beneath. The machine is focused on deep tissue and does not affect the tissue close to the surface. The ultrasound frequency, duration, and intensity are adjusted per patient and ailment.

The type of Ultrasound used in physical therapy is called Thermal Ultrasound. This type of heating effect helps reduce chronic inflammation and heal muscle pain. It can also be beneficial for tissue fluid and improving movement with lymph passing through the body. Lymph helps transport white blood cells around the body, which helps fight infections and can help improve healing time.

Risks of Ultrasound

Exposure to low-intensity ultrasound for prolonged periods can cause superficial burns. Please let your therapist know if you notice any redness or bumps in the area after this procedure is performed. The risk is very low for this type of reaction, and your therapist will keep the probe moving while in contact with the skin to avoid complications. Therapeutic ultrasound is generally not used over implants, active infections, eyes, or the spine.

Benefits of Ultrasound

  1. This procedure is painless, easy to do, and takes minimal time.
  2. There are no known harmful effects if performed correctly by your therapist.
  3. Ultrasound can reduce pain symptoms in affected areas.
  4. This is a non-invasive procedure performed on the surface of the skin.

How To Prepare for Your Visit if Ultrasound is Expected

  1. Wear loose-fitting clothes that can be shifted out of the affected area.
  2. Ultrasound gel or cream will be used for improved gliding over the skin and may be cold.
  3. The ultrasound probe will be moved in circular motions over the area and should not be felt.

*If you feel sharp pain or pinching while the Ultrasound probe is moving, please let your therapist know immediately.

Call Premier Physical Therapy at 573-335-7868 for more information on this type of modality.