What Is Therapeutic Ultrasound?
Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to deliver energy into targeted areas of the body. Unlike diagnostic ultrasound, which is used to create images of the body’s internal structures, therapeutic ultrasound is used as a treatment modality. The goal is to support circulation, tissue mobility, and the body’s natural recovery process in the area being treated. It’s ultrasound for treatment, not imaging.
01
Target
Andrew identifies the area being treated based on your symptoms, assessment, and goals.
Here’s a simple look at how ultrasound therapy fits into your care:
High-frequency sound waves deliver therapeutic energy to support soft tissue recovery and local circulation.
How Does Therapeutic Ultrasound Work?
02
Treat
A handheld ultrasound applicator is moved over the targeted area using a conductive gel.
Ultrasound Therapy
03
Support Recovery
The sound waves deliver therapeutic energy to the tissues, which may help support circulation, reduce muscle tension, and promote tissue recovery.
Muscle strains
When Might Ultrasound Therapy Be Helpful?
Therapeutic ultrasound may be incorporated into care for certain soft tissue and musculoskeletal concerns, including:
Tendon irritation
Whether ultrasound therapy is appropriate depends on the tissue involved, your symptoms, and your individual treatment goals.
Joint inflammation
Soft tissue injuries and areas with restricted mobility
What Does Ultrasound Therapy Feel Like?
Gentle heat
Cooling gel
Soothing glide
Comfortable motion
Ultrasound therapy is generally comfortable. You’ll typically feel the applicator moving over the treatment area with a small amount of gel.
Relaxing warmth
Treatment should not be painful. Let Dr. Andrew know if anything feels uncomfortable so the treatment can be adjusted.
Depending on the settings being used, you may feel gentle warmth or very little sensation at all.
Mild vibration
We prioritize your comfort and can adjust the intensity levels at any time.
Smooth contact
What Happens During an Ultrasound Treatment?
01
Assess
We’ll determine whether ultrasound therapy is appropriate for the area you’re experiencing symptoms.
02
Apply
A small amount of conductive gel is applied to the skin.
03
Treat
Andrew moves the ultrasound applicator over the targeted tissue using the appropriate settings.
04
Reassess
We’ll evaluate your response and determine whether additional treatment or other therapies may be helpful.
A Targeted Tool Within Your Care Plan
Ultrasound therapy isn’t necessarily the answer to every injury or pain problem. At Health Wave, it’s one of several tools Andrew may use depending on what your body needs. It can be paired with chiropractic care, soft tissue therapy, rehabilitation, or other modalities when appropriate. The goal isn’t to use more treatment. It’s to use the right treatment.
Chiropractic Care
Personalized spinal and joint care.
Active Rehabilitation
Specific exercises to build stability and power.
Soft Tissue Therapy
Focused work on tight muscles and fascia issues.
Cold Laser Therapy
Light-based energy for cellular renewal.
Complementary Modalities
Integrated clinical tools to enhance your recovery efficiency.
Support for Soft Tissue Recovery
Ultrasound therapy may be considered when soft tissue discomfort or restricted movement is getting in the way of your everyday activities or training.
Recovering From an Injury
Active Individuals
Support your body’s natural recovery process following certain strains, sprains, and soft tissue injuries.
Everyday Movement
Help address soft tissue issues that may interfere with training or activity.
Mobility Limitations
Address muscle tension and mobility limitations that can make daily movement more difficult.
A Bigger Approach to Recovery
Depending on your needs, ultrasound therapy may be combined with:
Spinal Adjustments
Improve joint movement and function.
Active Rehabilitation
Build strength and restore mobility.
Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization
Address soft tissue restrictions and mobility.
Cold Laser Therapy
Another modality used to support tissue recovery.