TENS vs. Ultrasound Therapy for Pain Relief
Unlike a TENS unit that transmits electrical stimulation with gentle pulses, an ultrasound machine for pain relief does not emit any skin sensation, though some patients may experience warmth. Dual modalities are possible using a professional unit that provides electrotherapy and ultrasound therapy.
Ultrasound Therapy transmits waves via a probe that glides over the soft tissue to relax tight, sore, or spasming muscles. This modality warms the muscle tissue to increase blood flow and repair.
TENS Therapy transmits pulses to stimulate the nerves via electrodes adhered to the skin. Electrical nerve stimulation is used to decrease pain. It's commonly indicated after surgery to ignite the nerve and stimulate healing.
Ultrasound Indications
- Knee, Shoulder, and Hip Pain
- Muscle Knots
- Tendonitis
- Muscle Spasms
- Chronic Pain Relief
- Arthritis
- Joint or Muscle Contractors
- Stiff Joints
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Ultrasound Machine Options
There are two three styles of ultrasound units. The first ultrasound machine for pain relief offer accessibility to patients when at home or on the go. The second option allows for combination therapy in a clinic or physical therapy setting. This combination means that one unit provides convenient TENS electrical therapy and ultrasound therapy, which minimizes equipment needed. The last unit is an ultrasound machine used in hospitals to diagram the bladder for urological analysis and to facilitate catheterization placement.
Ultrasound Unit With Carrying Case
A portable ultrasound machine for pain relief creates accessibility to pain relief therapy whether at home or away. The travel carry case makes transport easy and holds the unit, ultrasound gel, and AC adapter.
Examples:
Ultrasound and TENS Electrotherapy Combo
A combination unit incorporates electrotherapy and ultrasound therapy either together or independently.
Examples:
- InTENSity CX4 comes with adjustable intensities for electrotherapy and ultrasound therapy. It sits on storage compartments and caster wheels to make it accessible for professional convenience.
- UltraTENS II Unit combines both modalities for therapeutic relief of chronic and acute muscular pain. The device comes in a convenient carry case.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What does an ultrasound machine do for pain?
The sound waves emit heat and warm the muscle and other soft connective tissue. This direct stimulation relaxes the muscle and encourages blood flow so that repair can begin on a cellular level.
Can ultrasound therapy be harmful?
There are no known harmful effects.
Does ultrasound prevent scar tissue?
It is not definitive, but it's believed that the sound waves' micro-vibrations disrupt scar tissue fibers from forming and may be used to break down existing scar tissue to increase the range of motion.2
Footnotes
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