Ultrasound Basics

Therapeutic ultrasounds treat pain by sending sound waves that make contact with connective tissue (such as tendons and ligaments). The sound waves act as an anti-inflammatory to decrease pressure on the tissue and joints.

Thermal Ultrasound Therapy

This method provides a steady flow of sound waves continuously to the tissue. This causes a tissue healing effect that filters throughout the swollen areas and causes the cells to slowly heal themselves.

Mechanical Ultrasound Therapy

Rather than use a steady flow of sound waves like thermal ultrasound, mechanical ultrasound sends out a slow rhythm of sound pulses designed to decrease swelling and reduce the pain in the affected areas.

Mixed Opinions

Members of the medical community have mixed opinions about the effectiveness of ultrasound therapy. Some swear by the practice, while others claim it is no different from traditional therapy methods like massage and heating treatments.

Recent Advances

Lately, experimenters have tried using ultrasound as a drug delivery system, primarily for patients with brain tumors or other conditions where invasive administration may have adverse effects. This method is called acoustic targeted drug delivery.

Source:

Darrow Wellness Institue, "Therapeutic Ultrasound"