Utilizing Doppler Ultrasound Therapy to Assess and Accelerate Healing in Soft Tissue Injuries

Ultrasound Therapy is used to treat Chronic Pain and aid in the healing process of soft tissue injuries such as sprains, strains, tendonitis, and bursitis. The therapy is noninvasive, and requires no anesthesia. Research indicates that the therapy can produce results in pain relief, reduction of scar tissue formation and more efficient healing for many patients.

The therapeutic use of ultrasound is based on the piezoelectric effect: when a quartz crystal or ceramic disc exposed to an electric field produces mechanical vibrations that can be transmitted to the biological tissues through a conductive gel. The vibrations can penetrate up to a few centimeters into the tissue, and create both thermal and mechanical effects. These include reducing inflammation, relieving pain, and improving microcirculation. It can also stimulate the reabsorption of haematomas and break down scar tissue.

During a session of therapeutic ultrasound, the technician will first inspect your skin for any infections or open wounds. After ensuring that the area is free of any such problems, they will apply a hypoallergenic gel or cream to the area. This helps to prevent air from getting in between the wand and your skin, which can interfere with the transmission of the ultrasound waves. The therapist will then place the wand on the surface of your skin, and move it in a stroking motion over the affected area.

There are several different types of FDA-approved therapeutic ultrasound treatments, but they all have a few things in common. They all transmit their waves from the transducer directly to your skin through a coupling medium, which is usually a special type of gel. The gel has been tested with different mediums, but the most effective seem to be non-irritating hypoallergenic types that are safe for use on sensitive areas of your body.

The therapist will also adjust the intensity of the machine according to the condition being treated. For example, if you are treating a sprain or strain, the therapist will set the machine to be very low in intensity. However, if you are suffering from a more serious injury or chronic pain, the therapist may increase the intensity of the treatment to get better results.

While the therapy has no side effects when done by a trained therapist, it is generally contraindicated in people with phlebitis or thrombophlebitis, neoplasms, tuberculosis, certain local infections, severe arrhythmias and cardiovascular disease, febrile states, and pregnancy. In addition, it is important to consult your doctor before undergoing this procedure if you have a pacemaker installed in your heart, as the ultrasound may interfere with its functioning. This is particularly true if the atria or ventricles are involved. For this reason, it is important to be accompanied by a physician during the ultrasound session. If you have any questions about therapeutic ultrasound, please contact Advanced MMC, Inc. We are always happy to answer any of your questions!