Course Description:

Therapeutic ultrasound is a modality that uses acoustic energy to produce physiological effects. Ultrasound waves in a frequency range of .75-3 MHz are applied via a transducer to body tissue. Vibrations of the molecules of the biologic medium through which the waves travel can produce thermal and nonthermal effects. Therapeutic ultrasound is primarily used for elevating tissue temperature and is considered a “deep heating” modality because of its ability to heat to a depth of 5 cm. Mechanical effects are thought to result from small magnitude movements of fluids and ions. Ultrasound is widely used in rehabilitation to improve connective tissue extensibility and pain relief in musculoskeletal injuries and to promote tissue healing and remodeling. Physical therapists (PTs) are reported to use therapeutic ultrasound more than any other electrophysiological modality.