Contraindications and Precautions for Therapeutic Ultrasound

Question 1

List a few contraindications for using therapeutic ultrasound.

Answer 1

Over the uterus during pregnancy, tissues where bleeding is occurring, and in areas with malignancy or significant vascular abnormalities like DVT.

Question 2

What precautions should be taken before using therapeutic ultrasound?

Answer 2

Review the patient’s medical history, perform a skin test if using thermal ultrasound, and ensure the lowest effective intensity is used.

Question 3

Why is it important to always move the treatment head during ultrasound therapy?

Answer 3

To prevent overheating and possible damage to the skin or underlying tissues from concentrated energy.

Question 4

What unique precautions must be taken when using ultrasound on children?

Answer 4

Avoid using ultrasound over active epiphyses due to their developing bone structure.