Therapeutic ultrasound is a method of stimulating tissue beneath the skin's surface using sound waves. It is a very high frequency massage that penetrates below the surface of the skin and warms the soft tissue. Generally used in combination with other modalities for pain relief, therapeutic ultrasound is frequently used to treat conditions such as hip dysplasia, degenerative joint disease, osteoarthritis, tendonitis, and bursitis. It is also very often used for post-op patients.
The gentle thermal effects of therapeutic ultrasound facilitate an increase in blood flow and enzyme activity in muscles, tendons, and ligaments. This helps to decrease swelling, promote healing, reduce the buildup of scar tissue, and relieve pain.