ULTRASOUND

Ultrasound is a mechanical vibration with a range greater than the audible vibration by the human ear. It is transmitted through physical media and is oriented, recorded and measured in Hertz with an apparatus designed for that end.
The technique is based on the application of kinetic or mechanical energy (sound waves), to the body through a treatment head.  The sound waves are driven, absorbed and transformed by the organism to another kind of energy (heated, activated).

EFFECTS AND MECHANISMS OF ACTION OF THE ULTRASOUND

1. PHYSIOLOGICAL

  • Hyperemia: The most important thermal effect, caused by a local increase of temperature, this hyperemia first appears within the surface limits, where energy is absorbed.
  • Increase in cell permeability: By a mechanical effect the cells start a number of rhythmical undulations producing a kind of rhythmic pulsations on the cell membrane leading to a change in the tissue structure, especially in its permeability. This molecular motion leads to an acceleration of osmotic and metabolic processes at a cellular level. The increase in cellular permeability joint with the hyperemia produces analgesia, antiphlogistic, and spasmolythic action. It can be destructive when used at very high power.
  • Spasmolythic Action: The vasodilatation can not only be evident when there’s normal irrigation, but especially in vascular spasm. In addition to acting over vascular spasms, the ultrasound also acts on all organs contracted by spasms.
  • Antiflogistic action: This action is based on increased blood supply
    and the dilation of lymphatic pathways. This is why with the application of Ultrasound there’s a better resolution.
  • Neural effect: We must make it clear that from a therapeutic point of view, the conduction velocity of peripheral nerves can be modified and is possible to produce a temporary blockage, depending on the type of fiber. Some are more sensitive to ultrasound than others.  The type C fibers are the most sensitive ones.

2. MECHANICAL

There is a mechanical micro-massage with interesting therapeutic actions. The same as with the cavitation phenomenon, this mechanical factor produce an increase in the permeability of cell membranes with a consequent acceleration of the fluids exchange, facilitating the processes of diffusion and improving cellular metabolism.

3. CHEMICAL
As a result of thermal and mechanical factors, a series of chemical reactions appear such as the release of vasoactive substances.

COSMETIC AND THERAPEUTIC INDICATIONS

  • Cellulite
  • General fibrosis processes (post surgical procedures in plastic surgery).
  • Analgesic effect and muscle relaxation
  • Ligament and tendon injuries
  • Muscular-tendon Fibrosis
  • Retractable Scars
  • Keloids
  • Stimulation
  • Hyperemia
  • Increase in permeability of cell membranes
  • Improve joint mobility

CONTRAINDICATIONS

  • Should not be applied to specialized tissues: ovaries, testes and heart
  • Pregnancy
  • During the days of menstruation or around them
  • It shouldn’t be used over forming cartilage in children or youngsters in developing ages. 
  • Pacemakers
  • Thrombophlebitis
  • Coagulopathies and hemorrhages, continued heparinised patients
  • Eyes
  • Ears
  • IUD
  • Tumors