Ultrasound: Ultrasound is a therapeutic modality used by physical therapists for its thermal (heat) and non-thermal effects.
The thermal effects of ultrasound include:
- Increase the extensibility of soft tissue
- Decrease the viscosity of fluid elements
- Decrease pain perception by slowing nerve conduction velocity
- Increase metabolic rate
- Increase blood flow which assists in the reduction of swelling
- Stimulate the immune system
The non-thermal effects of ultrasound include:
Facilitate healing in the inflammatory and proliferative phase following soft tissue injury (tendonitis, bursitis, acute soft tissue injuries) by improving cellular metabolism and function.
