There are two basic forms of ultrasound – diagnostic and therapeutic.  They both use high frequency sound waves administered to a region of the body.  Most people are familiar with the diagnostic ultrasound that is commonly used on pregnant women.

Therapeutic ultrasound is used to treat injured tissues.  Gel is spread on the skin of the area to be treated in order to conduct the sound waves.  These sound waves travel as fast as one million times per second to penetrate the deep tissues creating heat and a pumping action.  Therapeutic ultrasound stimulates the healing process without irritation, reduces nerve root irritation, and improves blood flow.  Most patients feel nothing or a warm, relaxing sensation below the surface of the skin.