Here at Mathis, Ultrasound is one of the modalities that is used for patients. But what exactly is an ultrasound? Ultrasound is a therapeutic modality that has been used since the 1940’s. The ultrasound wand is put in contact with the patients skin using ultrasound gel in order to reduce friction and assist in the transmission of the ultrasonic waves. The waves are generated by a piezoelectric effect. This effect creates waves by the vibration of crystals with in the head of the ultrasound wand. “The sound waves that pass through the skin cause a vibration of the local tissues.” Now you know the science behind Ultrasound but what are the benefits of ultrasound?
- Increase tissue relaxation
- Local blood flow
- Scar tissue breakdown
- Reduce local swelling
- Reduce chronic inflammation
An alternate form of ultrasound is phonophoresis. This is a non-invasive way to administer a compounded medication for reducing inflammation, and relieving pain. This is great for someone who is not comfortable around needles. With phonophoresis the ultrasonic energy forces the medication through the skin.Now you know Ultrasound has many applications and isn’t only used as an imaging tool during pregnancy. Reference:“Therapeutic Ultrasound – Physical Therapy Web.” Physical Therapy Web. N.p., n.d. Web. 19 Oct. 2015.