Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy is one of the device-based treatment approaches that may be used in physiotherapy. During treatment, gel is applied over the skin and a treatment head is placed over the relevant area. It is more commonly considered in some more localised symptoms related to soft tissue, fascia, or tendon structures, especially where pressure, loading, or repeated movement brings on discomfort more clearly.
When may ultrasound therapy be considered?
- Symptoms are more localized to one area
- Pressure over the relevant area brings on discomfort more easily
- Loading, pulling, or repeated movement provokes symptoms
- The presentation appears more related to soft tissue, fascia, or tendon structures
- After assessment, the physiotherapist considers ultrasound therapy to be a suitable addition within the overall treatment plan
What is usually assessed first?
Assessment usually looks at where the symptoms are, how long they have been present, which movements provoke them most clearly, and how the area responds to pressure, movement, or loading. Where appropriate, the physiotherapist also considers whether the presentation is more consistent with soft tissue, fascia, or tendon involvement, together with its effect on movement and day-to-day function.
How is ultrasound therapy usually used?
When it is considered appropriate after assessment, ultrasound therapy is used according to the symptom presentation and affected area, with more emphasis on more localised symptoms related to soft tissue or tendon structures that are provoked by pressure, loading, or repeated movement. The physiotherapist may then add activity advice, manual therapy, or exercise therapy where needed, so that improvement can gradually carry over into daily activity.
You may also read
Manual Therapy
Shoulder Pain
Wrist Pain
Not sure how your current condition should be managed?
You may first arrange a physiotherapy assessment to understand the more suitable management approach according to your symptoms, activity needs, and rehabilitation goals.
