Therapeutic Ultrasound
Benefits/Purpose: Tissue relaxation, increased blood flow improving circulation, creates a deep heat to relieve muscle spasms and pain, increases healing rates, decreases pain, decrease inflammation (when used in pulsed mode) and breaks down scar tissue.
Frequency: 1-3 times weekly until the condition is resolved. A maintenance schedule may then be recommended based on your pet’s specific injury.
Therapeutic ultrasound is applied using a rounded probe that is put directly in contact with the patient. Ultrasound gel is used on all surfaces of the probe head in order to reduce friction and assist in the transmission of the ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic waves are created by an electric current which causes a crystal in the probe to vibrate at a specific frequency. The ultrasonic waves then pass through the skin causing a vibration of the local tissues. This vibration causes a warming sensation and the constant movement of the probe prevents overheating. Therapeutic ultrasound is not to be confused with diagnostic ultrasound. While both utilize sound waves, therapeutic ultrasound emits a different wavelength of sound compared to diagnostic ultrasound and does not produce any images of the inside of the body.
Therapeutic ultrasound works in two mechanisms: thermal effects and non-thermal effects.
Thermal Effects: Therapeutic ultrasound creates a deep heat within tissues. This is highly effective for improving flexibility of tissues and is often used to treat muscle spasms and contractures. Ultrasound is also very effective for preparing tissues prior to manual therapy techniques. These thermal effects occur deep within the tissues and typically the patient experiences a comfortable warming sensation.
Non-Thermal Effects: Therapeutic ultrasound also works by a process referred to as “cavitation”. Cavitation is the creation of microscopic gas bubbles that are rapidly expanding and contracting within tissues. Cavitation is effective for speeding cellular processes, facilitating healing, and increasing blood flow.
Conditions that therapeutic ultrasound has been shown to be effective in treating:
Scar tissue formation, muscle/trigger point dysfunction, tendon and ligament injuries, fractures and pain.