Although it is used for physical therapy of many musculoskeletal conditions, recent research has raised questions about its effectiveness and whether it can be used as a long-term treatment. Ultrasound therapy can be used to treat conditions such as bursitis and arthritis.
Ultrasound therapy: Mechanism
Ultrasound heats deep areas of the body that can’t get heated with standard hot packs. Cavitation is another method. Bubbles form near the injury area. Bubbles rapidly contract and expand, and this rapid contraction and expansion is thought to heal injuries
Can ultrasound heal injuries?
The question of whether or not ultrasound can be used to treat injury is controversial. Two groups of arthritis patients were subject to research. Both the sham and true ultrasound groups healed equally well. However, another study on shoulder patients showed that ultrasound speeds up healing.
Is ultrasound harmful?
Ultrasound is an extremely safe treatment option, but it should not be used on patients who have any metal objects in their bodies or children with cancer. There are no side effects, but there is no evidence to show that it heals injuries.
Placebo effects
Ultrasound could be a placebo effect. This means the mind believes you are healing because someone has done something to you. We can, therefore, say that ultrasound is more mental than a physical process.
Conclusion
It is safe and has no side effects. However, some research has shown that it has no beneficial effects on the body. Despite this fact, physical therapists still use this treatment for many conditions. While it may benefit some people, it does not significantly affect others’ bodies. This depends on the person’s body type. If your physical therapist recommends an ultrasound treatment, ask why and what the results will be on you. If you are not satisfied with the results of ultrasound therapy, your physical therapist can discontinue the treatment. This will allow you to get the most out of your session.
