therapeutic ultrasound: WhaT is it?

Introduction of Therapeutic Ultrasound

Therapeutic ultrasound (US) is a widely used treatment modality in musculoskeletal rehabilitation, particularly for managing soft tissue injuries, reducing pain, and promoting recovery. In sports therapy and physiotherapy, US is commonly utilised to enhance tissue healing, increase mobility, and support the recovery process for both athletes and the general population.

How Does It Work?

Figure 1. Attenuation of an ultrasound wave.

Principles of Therapeutic Ultrasound

Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves (1–3 MHz) to create mechanical and thermal effects within tissues.

Figure 2. Physiological Effects from Therapeutic Ultrasound.

The mechanical effect, known as cavitation, involves:

• Tissue molecule vibration

• Promoting cellular activity

• Tissue repair

• Tissue healing

The thermal effect:

• Generates heat in deeper tissues

• Increasing blood flow

• Reducing muscle stiffness

• Improving tissue extensibility

The frequency of ultrasound determines its depth of penetration

Figure 3. Depth of the 1mHz and 3mHz Ultrasonic Waves.

1 MHz is ideal for deeper tissues, while 3 MHz targets superficial structures. The application mode also influences the outcome. Pulsed ultrasound provides non-thermal effects, such as reducing inflammation and enhancing cellular permeability, whereas continuous ultrasound delivers thermal benefits. These combined effects make therapeutic ultrasound an effective tool for promoting recovery and functional restoration.

Is Ultrasound Therapy Enough for My Injury Recovery?

Effectiveness of Therapeutic Ultrasound Combined with Sports Therapy Interventions

Therapeutic ultrasound is often used alongside sports therapy interventions, such as manual therapy, soft tissue release, and therapeutic exercises, to enhance recovery and treatment outcomes.

• Joint mobilisation or manipulation are widely used to reduce joint pain or stiffness and increase range of motion. Combined with ultrasound therapy's ability to increase tissue extensibility and improve blood flow can help prepare tissues for mobilisation, reducing stiffness and improving range of motion.

• Soft Tissue Therapy such as myofascial release or trigger point therapy, benefit from the mechanical effects of ultrasound, which promote cellular activity and tissue repair, enhancing the effectiveness of these methods.

• Therapeutic Exercise which aim to restore strength, flexibility, and function, are also complemented by ultrasound therapy. Studies suggest that the thermal effects of continuous ultrasound can reduce muscle tension and improve neuromuscular performance, facilitating more effective participation in rehabilitation exercises. Furthermore, pulsed ultrasound has been shown to reduce inflammation and pain, allowing individuals to engage in therapeutic activities with less discomfort.

Clinical Tips for Using Therapeutic Ultrasound

For professionals, tailor ultrasound parameters based on injury type and recovery goals. Use 1 MHz for deeper tissues and 3 MHz for superficial areas. Pulsed ultrasound is effective for reducing inflammation, while continuous ultrasound improves blood flow and tissue extensibility. Combine ultrasound with manual therapy, soft tissue release, or therapeutic exercises to enhance outcomes.

For the general population, seek guidance from a qualified medical professional for proper use. Understand that ultrasound is most effective when paired with active rehabilitation, such as stretching or strengthening exercises. Always follow recommended treatment plans and communicate any discomfort during sessions.

References

Analan, P. D., Leblebici, B., & Adam, M. (2015). Effects of therapeutic ultrasound and exercise on pain, function, and isokinetic shoulder rotator strength of patients with rotator cuff disease. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 27(10), 3113–3117. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.27.3113

Cheatham, S. (n.d.). Therapeutic modalities: ultrasound. OccupationalTherapy.com https://www.occupationaltherapy.com/articles/therapeutic-modalities-ultrasound-5366

Morishita, K., Karasuno, H., Yokoi, Y., Morozumi, K., Ogihara, H., Ito, T., Hanaoka, M., Fujiwara, T., Fujimoto, T., & Abe, K. (2014). Effects of therapeutic ultrasound on range of motion and stretch pain. Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 26(5), 711–715. https://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.26.711

Matthews, M. J., & Stretanski, M. F. (2023, July 31). Ultrasound therapy. StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK547717/ .

Therapeutic Ultrasound. (2024, July 31). Physiopedia. Retrieved 11:57, October 19, 2025 from https://www.physio-pedia.com/index.php?title=Therapeutic_Ultrasound&oldid=356785 .