Ultrasound Therapy and Its Role in Chiropractic Care
Ultrasound therapy is a technique used by many chiropractors like Dr. Gary McDowell at McDowell Family Chiropractic in La Mesa, CA, to ensure that patients find freedom from their pain and other symptoms. Also known as therapeutic ultrasound, this technique harnesses the power of sound waves to penetrate the deep tissues of damaged or injured treatment areas.
The sound waves are emitted through a handheld instrument, which is aimed at the target site. These waves cause a vibration in the tissues, which leads to several effects, such as:
- Creating warmth in the tissues, which helps them relax
- Increasing blood flow, which both decreases inflammation and delivers healing nutrients to the tissues
- Breaking up tension and scar tissue
- Releasing endorphins, which are a natural pain relief chemical
Benefits of Therapeutic Ultrasound
Chiropractors utilize therapeutic ultrasound for a variety of reasons, one of which is that it stimulates natural healing. When the tissues can heal through completely natural means, patients are less likely to rely on pain medication or resort to surgical methods.
Another benefit of the technique is its ability to penetrate deeply into the soft tissues. Often, tension, scar tissue, and trigger points develop in areas that are difficult to access through most methods. Unfortunately, if they aren’t addressed, they get worse and cause chronic pain. Therapeutic ultrasound helps eliminate issues in the deeper layers, allowing for comprehensive healing and relief.
Thanks to its benefits, therapeutic ultrasound is used in conjunction with other chiropractic techniques to address a wide range of issues. These include but are not limited to:
- Osteoarthritis
- Bursitis
- Muscle strains
- Ligament sprains
- Carpal tunnel syndrome
- Tendonitis
- Myofascial pain
- Frozen shoulder and other sources of shoulder pain
- Chronic neck and back pain
Your chiropractor will determine the best combination of techniques after assessing your injury and symptoms.
Find out if ultrasound therapy can bring you the relief you desire by visiting Dr. McDowell at McDowell Family Chiropractic in La Mesa, CA. Call (619) 670-7700 to schedule an appointment today.