Ultrasound is the use of common household current converted to an ultrasound wave by the combination of a transformer, transducer head, and oscillating circuit. The crystal in the transducer head creates the piezoelectric effect of the ultrasound wave which allows these waves to penetrate deep into the tissues. This can have many favorable thermal and non-thermal effects.
PHYSIOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF ULTRASOUND:
- Increased metabolic rate of tissue
- Increased extensibility of collagen
- Increased blood flow and tissue healing
- Increased joint range of motion
- Decreased sensitivity of neural elements
- Decreased pain and muscle spasms
INDICATIONS FOR ULTRASOUND:
- Treatment of non-acute soft tissue injuries
- Sub-acute and chronic inflammation
- Tissue regeneration
- Non-acute bursitis
- Adhesive capsulitis
- Scar tissue softening
- Myositis
- Nerve root irritation
CONTRAINDICATIONS FOR ULTRASOUND:
- Neoplasms–active cancers
- Circulatory disorders
- Pregnant uterus or over reproductive organs
- Areas of acute inflammation
- Open wounds
- Epiphysis of growing bones
- Over or around pacemakers
- Over areas of decreased sensation
- Healing fractures
- Feverish conditions
- Also avoid brain, heart, eyes, and ears
COMMENTS:
- Can be used in combination with electrical stimulation (Medco) or with 10% Hydrocortisone cream for Phonophoresis. Commonly used in conjunction with other modalities.
- Can be used directly on skin surface with ultrasound gel or in water (immersed ultrasound)
- Performance Therapeutics clinical policy is to discontinue ultrasound after 10-12 treatments to a single area due to possible detrimental physiological effects.
