Therapeutic Ultrasound in Physiotherapy: What It Does
Therapeutic ultrasound has been used in physiotherapy for over 60 years and remains one of the most commonly prescribed electrotherapy modalities globally. When searching for ultrasound physiotherapy near me, it is important to distinguish therapeutic ultrasound from diagnostic scanning and to understand its evidence-based applications.
How Therapeutic Ultrasound Works
Therapeutic ultrasound machines produce sound waves at either 1 MHz (penetrates up to 5 cm deep — for muscles, joints) or 3 MHz (penetrates 1 to 2 cm — for superficial tendons, ligaments).
These sound waves produce two types of therapeutic effects:
1. Thermal Effects (Continuous Mode)
- Increased tissue temperature by 1–4°C
- Enhanced collagen extensibility — ideal before stretching scar tissue or joint contractures
- Increased metabolic activity and blood flow
- Pain gate activation (reduced pain transmission)
2. Non-Thermal / Mechanical Effects (Pulsed Mode)
- Acoustic streaming — movement of fluid along cell membranes, enhancing ion transport
- Cavitation — oscillation of gas bubbles in tissue fluid, enhancing cellular activity
- Promotion of tissue repair and inflammatory resolution in acute injuries
Clinical Applications of Therapeutic Ultrasound
| Condition | Mode | Frequency |
|---|---|---|
| Calcific Tendinitis (Shoulder) | Continuous | 1 MHz |
| [Plantar Fasciitis](/conditions/plantar-fasciitis) | Pulsed | 3 MHz |
| Acute [Muscle Strain](/conditions/muscle-strain) | Pulsed | 1 or 3 MHz |
| Scar Tissue / Adhesions | Continuous | 1 or 3 MHz |
| Ligament Sprain | Pulsed (acute) → Continuous (sub-acute) | 3 MHz |
| Bursitis | Pulsed | 1 MHz |
Contraindications for Therapeutic Ultrasound
Do not apply therapeutic ultrasound:
- Over active malignancy (tumour growth promotion risk)
- Over bone growth plates in children
- Over cardiac pacemakers or implanted electronic devices
- Directly over the eye or anterior neck (thyroid, carotid)
- Over the uterus during pregnancy
- Over acute infectious conditions or active DVT
- Over metal implants at high intensities (low intensity is generally accepted)
What to Expect During an Ultrasound Physiotherapy Session
- Gel application to the target area
- Slow, circular movement of the ultrasound transducer over the treatment area
- Session duration: 5 to 10 minutes per area
- No significant sensation in pulsed mode; mild warmth in continuous mode
- Followed by manual therapy or exercise rehabilitation
Evidence for Therapeutic Ultrasound
A 2014 Cochrane review found that therapeutic ultrasound may reduce pain and improve function in musculoskeletal conditions, but effect sizes are modest. Current evidence is strongest for calcific tendinitis and tissue healing acceleration. Most clinical guidelines recommend ultrasound as an adjunct to, not replacement for, active rehabilitation.
For a comprehensive overview, see our guide: Ultrasound Therapy in Physiotherapy: Frequency & Uses.
Cost of Ultrasound Physiotherapy in India
Ultrasound therapy is commonly included in physiotherapy packages. As a standalone modality: INR 300 to INR 700 per session. Combined with full physiotherapy treatment: INR 800 to INR 2,000 per session.
References
- van der Windt DA et al. Ultrasound therapy for musculoskeletal disorders. Pain. 1999.
- Wilk KE. Therapeutic ultrasound: an overview. Journal of Athletic Training. 1997.
- Robertson VJ et al. Electrotherapy Explained: Principles and Practice. Butterworth-Heinemann. 2006.