Therapeutic Ultrasound Applications in Physical Therapy: A Comprehensive Review of Its Role in Soft Tissue Healing and Pain Reduction
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.63282/3050-922X.IJERET-V5I4P103Keywords:
Therapeutic ultrasound, Soft tissue healing, Pain reduction, Musculoskeletal injuries, Physical TherapyAbstract
Therapeutic ultrasound (TUS) is a non-invasive modality widely utilized in physical therapy for its potential benefits in soft tissue healing and pain reduction. This review explores the mechanisms, applications, and clinical efficacy of TUS in treating various musculoskeletal conditions. TUS operates through thermal and non-thermal effects, promoting increased blood flow, reducing edema, and enhancing tissue extensibility. Clinical evidence supports its effectiveness in managing conditions such as knee osteoarthritis, where it has been shown to significantly alleviate pain and improve functional outcomes compared to placebo treatments. Additionally, TUS is beneficial for acute soft tissue injuries, chronic pain syndromes, and sports-related injuries by facilitating the healing process and improving joint mobility. However, the efficacy of TUS remains contentious for certain conditions, such as low back pain, where guidelines recommend against its use. This review underscores the importance of further research to refine the application protocols and optimize therapeutic outcomes of ultrasound in physical therapy
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