Ultrasound is a supplemental treatment modality commonly used in physical therapy. It provides deep heating to soft tissues in the body including muscles, tendons, joints, and ligaments. It can help decrease pain, increase tissue elasticity, increase cellular activity, and increase circulation.
This common therapy modality uses the application of high-pitched sound waves which promote circulation while generating heat deep within connective tissues. In addition to enhancing the effects of other treatments like exercise and manual therapy, ultrasound is also thought to speed up the ligament healing process.
Phonophoresis is a technique which uses ultrasound to enhance the absorption of topically applied medications such as xylocaine and cortisone for pain relief.
Benefits of Ultrasound therapy:
- Reduces local swelling.
- Decreases chronic inflammation.
- Promotes tissue healing.
- Promotes bone fracture healing.