Ultrasound technology plays a big role in the world of medicine. Often, it is used in a diagnostic capacity. But did you know that it could also help you to recover from injuries? This blog post provides basic information on how ultrasound therapy works to promote healing.
An Introduction to Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy uses low-intensity sound waves to enlarge blood vessel diameter near the site of injured tissues. This increases blood flow, which means that more healing and growth factors can work to help the damaged tissues recover.
Ultrasound therapy for musculoskeletal injuries is completely non-invasive, making it a comfortable and effective treatment for various conditions. Often, it is used to address problems like tendinitis, rotator cuff injuries, and other types of sprains and strains.
Another major benefit of ultrasound therapy is that it is painless. You may just feel a slight warming sensation as the technology does its work.
What Can You Expect with Treatment?
In-office ultrasound therapy treatments usually take just a few minutes. You may need to visit your doctor’s office multiple times to experience the desired results.
Some physicians offer portable ultrasound therapy with the unique Sustained Acoustic Medicine (sam®) device. It uses palm-sized applicators that adhere to the site of your injury. Once you activate the device, you can carry it with you as you go about your daily activities! Most patients are directed to use sam® for 1 -4 hours daily for 6 – 8 weeks.
Ultrasound therapy is sometimes used as a standalone treatment, but in other cases, it is combined with other treatments to make recovery as easy and fast as possible for patients.
Is Ultrasound Therapy Right for You?
Ultrasound therapy is a low-risk treatment that is suitable for most patients. However, if you are pregnant or have certain types of cardiovascular issues, it may not be right for you. Your doctor will consider all relevant factors before determining whether or not to prescribe ultrasound therapy in your unique case.
Ultrasound therapy may help you to enjoy improved mobility and reduced pain! If you are suffering from a sprain or strain, it might be just what you need to speed up your recovery.
Meet the Practice
Dr. Paul Tortland is an experienced sports medicine physician who is glad to serve the Glastonbury area. He was one of the first doctors in our area to offer portable ultrasound therapy with the sam® device. If you are dealing with aches and pains, he and our team can assess the situation and design a custom treatment plan to help you get back to feeling like yourself. To learn more about us and how we may be able to serve you, contact Valley Sports Physicians & Orthopedic Medicine at 860-430-9690.