What is therapeutic ultrasound?
|
Ultrasound refers to sound waves frequencies that are above the level audible to the human ear. Therapeutic ultrasound makes use of a machine called a transducer that can be set to different frequencies. These sound waves are then transmitted to the body via a metal wand.
Ultrasound therapy has been around for more than 50 years. Today, ultrasound waves are used in many different health care fields for such diverse uses as dental hygiene, sports injuries, and cancer treatment. |
How does it work?
Once a conducting agent such as a gel is applied to the skin, the wand transmitting the desired frequency of soundwaves is moved over the area. Ultrasound waves are most easily absorbed by tissues that contain high levels of protein, like ligaments and tendons.
Tissues which are more liquid, such as blood, do not absorb the sound waves very well. If the tissue is very dense, such as bone, it will not absorb the sound waves but bounce them back.
Once a particle comes into contact with a sound wave, it vibrates around it. This oscillation is the basis of most therapeutic ultrasound. It is widely assumed that the vibration of the cells in the treated area causes a heating effect as well as stimulating certain chemical and biological processes in the body. All of this brings about a shortened healing time and decreased pain.
Tissues which are more liquid, such as blood, do not absorb the sound waves very well. If the tissue is very dense, such as bone, it will not absorb the sound waves but bounce them back.
Once a particle comes into contact with a sound wave, it vibrates around it. This oscillation is the basis of most therapeutic ultrasound. It is widely assumed that the vibration of the cells in the treated area causes a heating effect as well as stimulating certain chemical and biological processes in the body. All of this brings about a shortened healing time and decreased pain.
Ultrasound in everyday life
You might be wondering how your chiropractor can help you by using sound waves.
Let’s say that you recently suffered a sprained ankle, and it’s still causing problems. Ultrasound treatments to your ankle will cause the cells to start vibrating, causing blood flow to increase and collagen to be produced, which is necessary for effective healing. The sound waves also cause a lengthening and softening of the scar tissue that formed as a result of the injury.
The result? Your healing time is quicker, and your pain is diminished. Ultrasound therapy is also commonly used in incidences of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, and joint bursitis as well.
Let’s say that you recently suffered a sprained ankle, and it’s still causing problems. Ultrasound treatments to your ankle will cause the cells to start vibrating, causing blood flow to increase and collagen to be produced, which is necessary for effective healing. The sound waves also cause a lengthening and softening of the scar tissue that formed as a result of the injury.
The result? Your healing time is quicker, and your pain is diminished. Ultrasound therapy is also commonly used in incidences of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, and joint bursitis as well.
Just another tool in your chiropractor’s kit
Making use of ultrasound technology is a great way for you to access more of what your chiropractor can offer. Because the sound waves penetrate 2-5 cm. under the skin, a large variety of ailments, injuries and chronic discomforts can be addressed.
Ask your chiropractor at your next visit if ultrasound therapy can benefit you.
Ask your chiropractor at your next visit if ultrasound therapy can benefit you.
