Ultrasound therapy is part of a physical therapy treatment using sound waves at a very high frequency to penetrate the skin deep into the soft tissue of your injured or painful area. It involves using a hand held wand or probe with a rounded head which is attached to an ultrasound machine. A gel would be rubbed onto the skin and the probe head would be moved over the affected area in small circular movements. The high-frequency (ultrasonic) waves are produced by vibration on the head of the probe. The waves travel through the skin causing vibration to the tissue in the affected area. The vibration causes a heating up of the tissue which has a beneficial effect on the injury.
Ultrasound therapy dosage can be varied by lowering the frequency of the ultrasound beam. The lower the frequency is administered, the deeper the penetration of the waves, thus dealing with deeper tissue injury. At higher frequencies dosages are used for most injuries closer to the skin rad140 cycle surface. A typical treatment session would last between 3 and 10 minutes depending on the injury.
Whilst ultrasound therapy is safe when administered by a professional or person who has had training it can have its dangers. If the head of the probe is kept stationary over an area for too long it can burn surface tissue or even deeper parts like bone and cartilage. Damage may also be caused to internal organs.
Parts of the body that should be avoided are eyes, nose and mouth or over the heart, brain or spinal cord. Other areas include liver, kidneys and lungs. If pain is has not been diagnosed ultrasound therapy should only be undertaken if prescribed by a doctor or professional. Care should be taken when ultra sound is used on pregnant women or those taking anticoagulant medicines.