Ultrasound

Ultrasound is an acoustic wave characterized by high frequency vibrations beyond the hearing of humans. Ultrasound is a physical therapy treatment that is distinguished by its wide field of application. The therapy helps deal with painful conditions and promotes the relief of inflammation.

Ultrasound – what is the treatment like?

Ultrasound therapy is completely safe, painless and non-invasive. Ultrasound treatments are carried out using a special ultrasound head. The first step is for the physiotherapist to apply a substance that conducts sound waves, such as a special gel, to the treatment area. The specialist then moves the head over the designated area in a continuous circular or longitudinal motion. Also important in the treatment is the intensity and frequency of the wave, which is selected individually to the patient and the needs of his or her condition.

Ultrasound vs. phonophoresis

Ultrasound is also used for ultraphonophoresis. This procedure involves the introduction of a drug into the tissues – using ultrasound. As it turns out, drugs under the influence of acoustic waves are more efficiently transported through the skin deep into the layers below. Thanks to this combination, through deeper penetration, the therapeutic effect of administered medications is increased. Drugs applied through phonophoresis are able to reach up to 8 cm deep into the body, often penetrating as far as the bone tissue. In addition to more effective transport, phonophoresis, through warming, also has a positive effect on the biochemistry of tissues. In addition, it improves cellular respiration, changes pH and improves collagen synthesis. Mostly, by means of phonophoresis, analgesic, anti-inflammatory or vasodilator drugs are administered, such as: Voltaren, Olfen, Naproxen.

Indications for the use of ultrasound:

• Post-traumatic conditions: strains, sprains, dislocations, fractures,
• degenerative diseases of the joints and spine
• edema of a lymphatic nature,
• rheumatic diseases
• contractures, scars, hematomas
• heel spur,
• runner’s knee,
• tennis elbow,
• golfer’s elbow,
• muscle rupture
• muscle tear
• sciatica
• sinusitis
• Analgesic effect on trigger points (so-called trigger points)

Contraindications to ultrasound treatment are:

• cancers
• blood clotting disorders
• Bleeding areas or areas at risk of bleeding
• abnormalities of the vascular system: atherosclerosis, thrombosis
• acute inflammations
• skin lesions (primarily in the course of infectious diseases)
• pregnancy
• active tuberculosis
• Metal at the site of lesions
• implanted pacemaker or other electronic implant
• state of general cachexia
• presence of metal implants
• Eye area, genital area, heart area
• advanced osteoporosis