Ultrasound therapy can be useful for various types of chronic pain conditions, it can be used to reduce pain in many different situations. Ultrasound therapy can be performed by chiropractors as well as other providers to help patients with pain related to one of several conditions.
What Conditions Can Be Treated With Ultrasound Therapy In Charleston SC?
Ultrasound therapy can assist in reducing pain due to:
- Osteoarthritis
- Bursitis
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Sprains
- Strains
- Pain from scar tissue
- Myofascial pain
How Does Ultrasound Therapy Work?
There are two types of ultrasound therapy including thermal and mechanical. Thermal ultrasound therapy uses the continuous transmission of sound waves to increase the heat and friction deep in the tissues. This warming encourages healing. Mechanical ultrasound therapy uses pulses of sound waves to penetrate the tissues, which has a less-significant warming effect. It directly helps reduce the inflammatory response, including decreasing pain and tissue swelling.
What Should You Expect During Ultrasound Therapy?
During ultrasound therapy, your chiropractor selects an area of the body to work on for between five and ten minutes. A gel will be applied to the head of the transducer or to your skin directly. That gel helps the sound waves travel smoothly and penetrate the skin evenly. The transducer head will be moved continually during the therapy. This is not an intrusive technique, so most patients have no pain or discomfort. However, if the area that is being treated is sensitive to the touch, then you may feel some discomfort as the transducer is used in that region. Some people have stated that they felt slight warmth on their skin, while others reported a mild pulsing sensation during the therapy.
Are Ultrasound Safe?
Yes. The FDA has stated that it is safe so long as it is performed by a licensed professional and that the transducer head is moved at all times. If the transducer is not moved regularly, there is a potential for burns, though this is highly unlikely.
HELPFUL ARTICLES
- Chiropractic FAQ’s
- Common Myths About Chiropractic Care
- What to Expect at Your First Chiropractic Visit
- Choosing the Right Chiropractor for You
- Candidates for Chiropractic Care
- Methods of Chiropractic Care
- The Importance of Regular Chiropractic Visits
- Chiropractic Care – Overview
- Benefits of Chiropractic Care