What are Therapeutic Ultrasound Treatments?

You may have heard of ultrasound imaging that is used to see structures inside the body like a developing fetus or the heart. Therapeutic ultrasound is based on the same technology and used by hand therapists to treat chronic pain and promote tissue healing.

Patient having an ultrasound of the wrist.

How does therapeutic ultrasound work?

The ultrasound machine connects to a handheld device called a transducer, which the therapist places against the skin over the area to be treated. The machine transmits ultrasonic sound waves through the skin and into the deep tissues (muscles, ligaments). Energy from these sound waves warm the deep tissues, which is thought to enhance blood flow to the tissues and promote healing.

What types of hand and wrist problems may benefit from therapeutic ultrasound?

Here are some of the common problems that may benefit from therapeutic ultrasound.

tendonitis
overuse injuries
muscle strains
arthritis
painful scar tissue

Ready to confirm a diagnosis and fix the problem, or just want to learn more?

Our board-certified orthopedic hand and wrist surgeons, Eric Angermeier, MD and Kyle Kokko, MD, PhD, are here to help! They can often diagnose the problem in one visit, and get you started with a treatment plan. We offer a wide variety of both nonoperative and operative treatment options.

Call today for a clinic or telehealth appointment! 854-429-4263