Ultrasound (c) Katie Mitchell Physiotherapy
Ultrasound refers to mechanical vibrations which are essentially the same as sound waves but of a higher frequency. The sound waves involve vibratory motion of molecules. This vibration creates energy and movement which in turn creates heat.

Therapeutic Effects:-

  • Heating can decrease pain and muscle spasm
  • Heating structures such as joint capsule, ligaments, tendons and scar tissue can increase their extensibility and hence decrease joint stiffness
  • Increases the strength of collagen tissue
  • Encourages the growth of new capillaries in ischaemic (no blood supply) tissue
  • Promotes bone healing and growth, especially in a non-union fracture
  • Breaks up scar tissue
  • Can be used to help diagnose stress fractures
  • The heating of the tissues increases blood flow for promoting tissue healing