Therapeutic Ultrasound Chicago, IL
Ultrasound is applied using a round-headed wand or probe that is put in direct contact with the patient’s skin. Ultrasound gel is used on all surfaces of the head in order to reduce friction and assist in the transmission of the ultrasonic waves. Therapeutic ultrasound is in the frequency range of about 0.8-3.0 MHz.
Therapeutic ultrasound is used mainly in 2 ways: Deep Heating and Cavitation.
Deep Heating increases blood circulation to injured tissues to promote faster healing while decreasing pain. This would improve muscle and tendon flexibility while restoring full range of motion.
Cavitation is created by using ultrasound energy to create rapid contraction and expansion of microscopic gas bubbles (cavitation) around the injured tissue, theoretically, speeding up the healing process.
Deep Heating increases blood circulation to injured tissues to promote faster healing while decreasing pain. This would improve muscle and tendon flexibility while restoring full range of motion.
Cavitation is created by using ultrasound energy to create rapid contraction and expansion of microscopic gas bubbles (cavitation) around the injured tissue, theoretically, speeding up the healing process.
Therapeutic Ultrasound is also used to create vasodilation allowing lymph fluid to drain into the vessels after traumatic events such as: Plastic surgery procedures from liposuction, surgical repairs, swelling, and bloating from excessive fluid build-up. This would synergistically be used with light gentle massaging from the ultrasound wand to induce lymphatic flushing.
Therapeutic Ultrasound appointments
Healing time:
Ultrasound can produce many effects other than just the potential heating effect. It has been shown to cause increases in tissue relaxation, local blood flow, and scar tissue breakdown. The effect of the increase in local blood flow can be used to help reduce local swelling and chronic inflammation, and, according to some studies, promote bone fracture healing.
Phonophoresis:
Ultrasound can also be used to achieve phonophoresis. This is a non-invasive way of administering medications to tissues below the skin; perfect for patients who are uncomfortable with injections. With this technique, the ultrasonic energy forces the medication through the skin. Cortisone, used to reduce inflammation, is one of the more commonly used substances delivered in this way.
Conditions Treated:
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