Therapeutic Ultrasound

CLINICAL INDICATIONS FOR HORSES

• Increase Circulation
• Improved Blood Flow in post Tie-Up (Exertional Rhabdomyolysis)
• Wound Healing
• Increase Contractility of Muscle Fibers (to increase Range of Motion)
• Decrease Scar Tissue Formation
• Decreased Pain and Muscle Spasm
• Accelerated Wound Healing
• Decrease Inflammation and Edema
• Decrease Tendon and Ligament Inflammation

Therapeutic ultrasound is the use of sound waves which are passed through tissue creating certain physiological effects.

There are three primary benefits to ultrasound. The first is the speeding up of the healing process from the increase in blood flow in the treated area. The second is the decrease in pain from the reduction of swelling and edema. The third is the gentle massage of muscles tendons and/ or ligaments in the treated area because no strain is added and any scar tissue is softened. These three benefits are achieved by two main effects of therapeutic ultrasound. The two types of effects are: thermal and non thermal effects. Thermal effects are due to the absorption of the sound waves. Non thermal effects are from cavitation, microstreaming and acoustic streamingCavitational effects result from the vibration of the tissue causing microscopic bubbles to form, which transmit the vibrations in a way that directly stimulates cell membranes. This physical stimulation appears to enhance the cell-repair effects of the inflammatory response. Studies have proven that Ultrasound helps in enhancing the metabolic activities of cells. Thus, ultrasound treatment helps in tissue repair, especially in soft tissue injuries.

 

We are always available for a consultation.

If you have any questions and would like to speak with a Veterinarian, please call us at 803-641-0644