Ultrasound Therapy
Ultrasound therapy is a non-invasive, physical therapy modality that uses high-frequency sound waves (typically 1–3 MHz) to promote healing in soft tissues. It is used in chiropody and physiotherapy for its mechanical and thermal effects on tissue.


How Does It Work?
1. Thermal Effects (Continuous mode):
● Sound waves generate heat in deep tissues.
● Increases blood flow, reduces muscle spasm, and improves tissue extensibility.
● Beneficial in chronic injuries or scar tissue.
2. Non-Thermal Effects (Pulsed mode):
● Induces micromechanical effects (cavitation and acoustic streaming).
● Promotes cellular repair, inflammatory modulation, and collagen synthesis.
● Ideal for acute injuries or inflammatory conditions.
Common Foot & Ankle Conditions Treated with
Ultrasound
- Condition Application & Benefits
- Plantar fasciitis Reduces inflammation and pain, accelerates soft tissue
healing
- Achilles tendinopathy Stimulates tendon repair and reduces chronic inflammation
- Ligament sprains (e.g.,
lateral ankle sprain) - Promotes collagen realignment and healing
Neuromas (e.g., Morton’s neuroma)
- May help with pain modulation (though evidence is limited)
Joint stiffness (e.g., 1st MTPJ)
- Increases tissue elasticity before mobilization
- Post-surgical or injury scarring
- Breaks down fibrotic adhesions, enhances flexibility
Ulcer management (limited use)
- Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound may aid wound healing by stimulating angiogenesis and fibroblast activity

Safety Considerations
Ultrasound is generally safe when used correctly, but important contraindications and precautions exist:
Contraindications
● Malignancy in the area
● Over or near implanted devices (e.g., pacemakers)
● Over epiphyseal plates in children
● Active infection or sepsis in the area
● Over ischemic tissues where circulation is severely compromised
Evidence Summary
● Mixed evidence in the literature—beneficial in soft tissue injuries when used adjunctively with exercise, stretching, and manual therapy.
● Less effective when used in isolation.
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