Potential for Burns
It is possible for ultrasound therapy to cause burns if the therapy is not performed properly. Skin burns can
result from one or more of the following:
• If the intensity (power) is too high.
• If you are using too low a frequency.
• Using a stationary technique (holding the sound head in one place).
• Moving the sound applicator head too slowly.
• Treating an area with sensory nerve damage (or the loss of normal skin sensations).
• Desensitized areas can be overheated or burned without the patient knowing it. Use
extreme
caution
with these patients (e.g., diabetes, neural damage, etc.).
• Bony prominences are especially vulnerable: they reflect sound waves and increase intensity to the
periosteum.
To Prevent Overheating of the Sound Head
• Check to be sure proper contact is being made throughout the treatment.
• When treating in water, make sure that the applicator head is completely under water.
• For direct coupling, you may need to apply more conductive gel or lotion during the treatment to
achieve better coupling.
• You can also reduce the power or duty cycle during the treatment if you are treating an area where it is
difficult to obtain good coupling.
Preventing Adverse Effects
•
Applicator Movement
If movement of the ultrasound applicator is too slow, the patient may feel perosteal pain
characterized by a deep ache or pain. If motion is too fast, or if the applicator head does not
maintain good contact with the skin, the therapeutic effect of the sound waves will be reduced
and the sound head may overheat.
•
Patient Susceptibility
Some patients are more sensitive to ultrasound output and may experience a reaction similar
to a heat rash. Be sure to inspect the treatment area during and following treatment, and
discontinue if an adverse reaction does occur.
•
Output Power
Choose a lower watt setting to reduce output or select a pulsed duty cycle. Higher output
levels have a greater potential for patient discomfort.
•
Coupling
Coupling is described as contact between the sound head and the treatment site and may be
accomplished through the use of a coupling agent, such as gel, lotion or water (underwater
treatments only). Anything used as a coupling agent must be highly conductive. Air is a very
poor conductor of ultrasonic waves.
•
Head Max. Temp. Disclaimer
NOTE:
Head Max. Temp. is for the protection of the equipment, not for the protection of the
patient.
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