Who Is a Good Candidate for Therapeutic Ultrasound?

What is therapeutic ultrasound?

When most people think of ultrasound technology, they envision a type of Doppler scan used to monitor pregnancies and to diagnose medical issues; however, ultrasound technology can also be used for medical treatment. Therapeutic ultrasound, or ultrasound therapy, is a non-invasive, medication-free procedure that has been used to treat various chronic pain conditions since the 1940s. It is typically performed by a trained physical therapist in an outpatient setting; it is also used in hospitals for certain injuries and conditions during the recovery process.

Who is a good candidate for therapeutic ultrasound?

Therapeutic ultrasound can reduce inflammation and pain in the ligaments, joints or muscles. Candidates for therapeutic ultrasounds include individuals with the following conditions:

• Carpal tunnel syndrome
• Shoulder pain
• Tendonitis
• Ligament injuries
• Joint tightness

Who is not a good candidate for therapeutic ultrasound?

Individuals with the following conditions are not good candidates for ultrasound:

• Infections, burns or wounds in the treatment area
• Cancer, especially in the treatment area
• Fractures in the treatment area
• Pregnancy
• Implanted devices, such as pacemakers, spinal cord stimulators, or deep brain stimulation devices