What is Ultrasound Therapy?
Abbreviated US, ultrasound therapy uses ultrasonic waves to penetrate deep into tissue to resolve any fibrotic tissue that may have formed. The sound waves not only cause fibrotic tissue to vibrate and inflame on a very minor scale, but also cause the water molecules of the area treated to heat, causing a small area of increased blood flow. This increased blood flow will further aid in the resolution of the resolution of fibrotic tissue.
The Benefits of Ultrasound Therapy
The sound waves emitted by the handle are of 1.5 or 3Mhz (megahertz). Each wavelength does the same, but penetrates different depths. The human body is ~70% water, and as such, these sound waves cause the water molecules to vibrate, and heat up. This causes the local area to inflame, and increase blood flow. This treatment protocol works well for small areas and is completely painless.
Who can Benefit from Ultrasound Therapy
Patients who have a very acute reaction to physical treatments (such as MRT or FAKTR) will fine therapeutic ultrasound very pleasant. There is nearly no “feeling” of this treatment other than a gentle warming feeling in the area it is being utilized.
This treatment is excellent for joint pain (elbow, shoulder and ankle) as well as areas of chronic muscle adhesion/restriction, should as the posterior shoulders, forearms, and plantar fasciitis.
Contraindications for Ultrasound Therapy
This technique is not indicated for conditions like cancer, pregnancy or open wounds. The doctor must be the one to administer this treatment, and treatments typically last 5-7 minutes. Due to the requirement of ultrasonic gel to be used, the most uncomfortable part of this treatment is the initial “shock” of the gel being cold. This minor inconvenience is quickly resolved as the applicator sending the sounds waves begin to heat slowly. Most patients find this treatment to be quite pleasant.
This particular treatment cannot be used over areas fluid cavities (spinal canal, skull, large arteries) or bony tissue (elbow, knee, ankle, wrist). The ultrasonic waves will produce a “cavitation” or bubble formation within the fluid, which will be detrimental to the patient. Over bony tissue, the bone will heat faster than the tissue above it causing a distinct uncomfortable feeling for the patient, and with sustained application, the bone may demonstrate fluid retention within the central cavity. While this is not as detrimental as the earlier mentioned fluid cavitation, the result is not warranted and non-therapeutic.
Are you experiencing joint, neck, or back pain? Work with a Buffalo Chiropractor that can help you.
Here at Herrington Family Chiropractic, not only does Dr. Herrington excels at spinal manipulation, but is also highly proficient at soft tissue manipulation. Utilizing techniques such as Myofascial Release Technique (MRT), Graston, Soft Tissue Massage, Ultrasound therapy and Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT) to ensure patients can be effectively treated for all their aches and pains.
If you have been living with joint, neck, or back pain, please contact us to schedule your consult.