ultraäänihoito

Ultraäänihoito, known in English as ultrasound therapy, is a therapeutic modality used in physiotherapy and sports medicine. It involves the application of high-frequency sound waves to tissues for various physiological effects. The sound waves, typically at frequencies of 1 MHz or 3 MHz, are generated by a transducer, often referred to as an ultrasound head or probe, which is moved over the targeted area.

The primary mechanisms by which ultrasound therapy is believed to work include thermal and non-thermal effects. Thermal effects arise from the absorption of acoustic energy by tissues, leading to a rise in temperature. This can increase local blood flow, enhance tissue extensibility, and reduce pain. Non-thermal effects are thought to be due to mechanical vibrations, such as cavitation (the formation and collapse of gas bubbles in tissue fluids) and acoustic streaming (the movement of fluids induced by sound waves). These effects may promote cellular activity, accelerate healing processes, and reduce inflammation.

Commonly, ultrasound therapy is used for conditions such as soft tissue injuries like strains and sprains, tendinopathies, muscle spasms, and scar tissue mobilization. It is applied using either a direct coupling method, where the transducer is placed directly on the skin with a coupling gel, or a water immersion technique. The intensity, frequency, and duration of the treatment are determined by the specific condition being treated and the desired therapeutic outcome. While generally considered safe, potential contraindications include areas with active infection, acute inflammation, cancerous lesions, and over pacemakers or the eyes.