Ultrasound therapy is a non-invasive physical treatment technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to penetrate body tissues, generating heat and mechanical effects to promote tissue repair and alleviate pain. This technology is primarily used in musculoskeletal treatments to improve local blood flow, relax fascial connective tissues, and accelerate tissue regeneration. In physical therapy, rehabilitation, and sports medicine, ultrasound therapy is often used as an adjunct for acute or chronic injuries.
Ultrasound therapy is divided into two main categories: thermal effect and cavitation effect. Thermal effect therapy converts mechanical vibrations into heat, deeply heating tissues to a depth of 2-5 centimeters to promote cellular metabolism. Cavitation effect therapy uses high-intensity sound waves to form microbubbles within tissues, creating cell membrane penetration effects, commonly used for drug delivery or tissue relaxation. The treatment mechanisms include:
This treatment is suitable for the following conditions:
In orthopedic treatment, ultrasound therapy is also used for delayed fracture healing or postoperative tissue adhesions. Some medical centers further apply it for nerve root stimulation in chronic cervical spine disorders.
Prior to treatment, the skin should be cleaned, and gel applied to the treatment area. The sound head is moved at a rate of 1-2 centimeters per second. Common parameter settings include:
Physicians will adjust parameters based on tissue depth and lesion characteristics. For example, tendonitis is often treated with 0.8 MHz pulsed mode, while superficial soft tissues are suitable for 1.5 MHz continuous wave.
This therapy offers several advantages:
Clinical studies show that ultrasound therapy can improve collagen fiber alignment and tissue repair quality. Compared to heat packs or electrical stimulation, its deep tissue heating and mechanical effects provide unique therapeutic benefits.
Possible side effects include:
Serious complications include tissue necrosis and lesion deterioration. Strict adherence to operation guidelines is necessary to avoid direct irradiation of bones or nerve trunks.
Contraindications include:
Before treatment, detailed medical history should be obtained. Absolute contraindications at specific sites must be observed. During treatment, patient responses should be closely monitored, and parameters adjusted promptly.
This therapy can be combined with other physical treatments:
Avoid using cold therapy (such as ice packs) within the same treatment cycle to prevent excessive temperature fluctuations in tissues.
Systematic reviews indicate that ultrasound therapy achieves a 65-80% improvement rate in shoulder adhesion cases, with an average pain reduction of 40% in tendinitis patients. A 2018 Cochrane review found that for Achilles tendinitis, groups receiving pulsed ultrasound healed 2-3 weeks faster than controls.
However, its effects on arthritic conditions are less clear. A 2020 study in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery showed no statistically significant difference in pain relief for osteoarthritis compared to placebo.
If contraindications exist or responses are unsatisfactory, alternative options include:
When choosing alternatives, consider lesion depth and tissue characteristics. For superficial issues, laser therapy may be more effective.
Wear loose clothing to expose the treatment area, and inform your doctor of medical history, pregnancy status, or presence of electronic implants. If you are on anticoagulants, confirm safety with your physician. If there are wounds or skin inflammation in the area, treatment plans may need adjustment.
What should I do if skin redness or swelling occurs after ultrasound therapy?Minor redness or swelling is normal; applying ice for 10-15 minutes can help. If blisters, persistent pain, or fever develop, stop treatment immediately and contact your doctor. Do not apply ointments yourself; professional assessment is necessary to determine if excessive energy settings or treatment duration caused the reaction.
How many sessions are recommended for a single ultrasound treatment?Typically, 3-5 minutes per site, with the total number depending on the condition (e.g., 3-5 sessions for acute issues, 10-15 for chronic problems). Intervals of at least 48 hours are recommended. Overly frequent treatments may cause tissue damage; follow the phased evaluation plan prescribed by your physician.
What precautions should I take during ultrasound treatment?Avoid strenuous activity or weight-bearing on the treated area within 6 hours post-treatment. Refrain from excessive heat, massage, or ice application. For lower limb treatments, wearing compression stockings can help reduce swelling, and avoid prolonged standing.
How long does it usually take to see the effects of ultrasound therapy?Inflammatory symptoms may improve after 1-2 sessions, while chronic pain or tissue repair typically takes 4-6 weeks. The effectiveness depends on the severity, patient metabolism, and compliance. Regular follow-up visits are necessary to evaluate and adjust the treatment plan.
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