Therapeutic Ultrasound
Therapeutic ultrasound is a treatment modality used to achieve deep heating of tissue, which can be very beneficial for a number of musculoskeletal issues. Some of the more common reasons we use therapeutic ultrasound for our patients are:
- Restricted range of motion
- Pain
- Muscle spasms
- Tightness.
By increasing the temperature of the muscle tissue, we are increasing the blood flow to the area, which in turn aids in tissue healing. Muscle relaxation, increased collagen extensibility, and increased pain tolerance are all benefits of therapeutic ultrasound treatment.
To perform therapeutic ultrasound, we will have the patient sit or lie down on a comfortable bed in our rehab room. We will clip the hair around the area of treatment, and using a special gel we will glide the ultrasound head over the area. It is painless and most patients have no reaction during treatment.
Treatment time varies depending on the patient and what they need, but is generally under 15-20 minutes. During this time our rehab technicians will pet, soothe, and give treats to the patient to make it as enjoyable an experience as possible!
Interested in pet pain control, relaxation, healing, and mobility?
How can Therapeutic Ultrasound Help Your Cat, Dog or Exotic pet?
Therapeutic ultrasound is a non-invasive treatment that uses sound waves to stimulate healing in the body. While it is commonly used in human medicine, it can also be beneficial for dogs and cats under the guidance of a veterinarian. Here are some ways therapeutic ultrasound may help your pet:
- Pain Management: Therapeutic ultrasound can be used to alleviate pain associated with various conditions such as arthritis, muscle strains, or injuries. It promotes the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, providing pain relief for your pet.
- Promoting Healing: Ultrasound waves can enhance blood circulation, bringing more oxygen and nutrients to the affected tissues. This increased blood flow accelerates the healing process. It helps in reducing inflammation, which is crucial for healing in conditions like soft tissue injuries.
- Muscle Relaxation: Therapeutic ultrasound can help relax muscles and reduce muscle spasms. This is particularly useful in conditions where muscle tension contributes to pain or limited mobility.
- Joint Mobility: For pets with joint conditions such as osteoarthritis, therapeutic ultrasound can improve joint mobility and function by promoting the synthesis of synovial fluid and reducing joint stiffness.
- Wound Healing: In cases of wounds or surgical incisions, therapeutic ultrasound may be used to promote faster and more efficient healing by stimulating cell proliferation and tissue regeneration.
- Reduction of Scar Tissue: Ultrasound can assist in minimizing the formation of scar tissue, especially after surgery or injuries. This is important for maintaining flexibility and function in the affected area.
- Enhanced Drug Delivery: Therapeutic ultrasound can facilitate the absorption of certain medications or topical treatments, enhancing their effectiveness when applied in conjunction with the ultrasound treatment.
It's important to note that while therapeutic ultrasound can offer various benefits, its use should be supervised by a veterinarian. The specific treatment plan, duration, and intensity of ultrasound therapy will depend on the individual pet's condition and needs. Additionally, precautions should be taken to ensure the safety and well-being of the animal during the procedure. Always consult with your veterinarian before considering any form of therapeutic intervention for your pet.
