Ultrasound imaging (or sonography) is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to generate an image of internal body structures such as muscles, joints, tendons, blood vessels, or internal organs.
How does ultrasound work?
This technique is achieved by placing a small ultrasound probe called a transducer directly on the skin. This transducer produces high-frequency sound waves that travel through the body and bounce off internal body structures. When the soundwaves bounce off these areas in the body they create “echoes” which are then collected by the probe and turned into a moving image.
What is ultrasound used for?
Many people are of the view that ultrasound is only really used during pregnancy, however, this is not the case. Ultrasound is a hugely versatile technique that can be used in a variety of different health settings, particularly sports injury clinics.
So, how can ultrasound help in sports injury clinics?
Ultrasound can be used to diagnose injuries
Ultrasound can be used to identify and determine the severity of sports-associated injuries. Typically, ultrasound is used to:
- Measure bone density
- Detect injuries and swelling
- Determine the severity of injuries
- Identify causes of pain
Ultrasound can be used as a therapeutic treatment
In addition to diagnosing injuries, ultrasound can actually be used to treat them by relieving pain and promoting tissue healing. This is known as ‘ultrasound therapy’.
Ultrasound therapy involves passing high-frequency sound waves through a treatment head into the soft tissue around the injury. These sound waves cause a vibration deep in the tissue which increases blood flow and stimulates the production of collagen – both of which are essential for healing.
Ultrasound therapy can be used to:
- Reduce pain
- increase blood flow
- Lessen muscle spasms
- Facilitate tissue repair
There are several sport-related injuries that can be treated with ultrasound therapy, including:
- Ligament injuries
- Pinched nerves
- Tendonitis
- Tight or frozen joints
Overall, ultrasound is an extremely versatile technique that can help diagnose and treat many sports-related injuries in clinics and rehabilitation centres.
Would you like to discuss servicing your existing ultrasound equipment in your sports injury clinic? Our experts can help you. Contact us today to speak to a member of our team about a partnership with us.