Ultrasound therapy is a field of physical therapy and electrotherapy describing a medical procedure for pain relief and support of healing processes. It belongs to the instrumental physical therapies and is well suited for treating conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
Ultrasound therapy uses high-frequency sound waves with a frequency between 0.8 and 3 MHz. These penetrate the soft tissue of the body and transfer energy there. A conductive gel is applied to the skin to ease the passage of the sound waves during treatment.
The sound waves generate micro-vibrations in the tissue, which in turn generate heat energy. This energy increases circulation in the treated area and thus accelerates the healing of damaged tissue. The ultrasound also provides a kind of massage within the tissue, reducing complaints and pain.
Ultrasound therapy is a treatment method for a wide range of conditions, particularly of the musculoskeletal system. It can be used to treat pain, inflammation, contractures, oedema and haematomas. Neurological conditions can also be treated with ultrasound.
The benefits of ultrasound therapy include pain reduction, decreased inflammation and the treatment of contractures. It is a non-invasive physical therapy that is generally well tolerated. When applied correctly, it has no side effects.