Ultrasound Machines

Ultrasound Therapy utilises mechanical vibrations at frequencies beyond the typical human sound range to induce therapeutic effects. These frequencies, generally between 1.0 and 3.0 MHz (1 million cycles per second), play a crucial role in therapy. When ultrasound waves interact with tissue, they create micro-vibrations, generating heat energy.

This localised heat promotes blood circulation, increases oxygen and chemical levels in the targeted area, and facilitates tissue healing. Ultrasound expedites the transfer of chemicals to damaged tissue, aiding in the formation of new tissue and ensuring proper alignment of tissue fibers for flexibility and strength restoration.

Ultrasound Therapy speeds up healing and tissue regeneration processes effectively. Practitioners widely employ this therapy in physical therapy due to its significant benefits.

Unlike traditional cold therapies using ice packs, Ultrasound Therapy utilizes sound waves to generate heat, promoting healing. The ultrasound machine, applied directly to the affected area with gel, delivers heat to specific points for targeted results.

How Ultrasound Machines Work

Therapeutic Ultrasound machines operate on the principle of converting electrical energy into mechanical vibrations, which are then transmitted into the body's tissue. This process is facilitated by transducer, often referred to as a probe or soundhead, which contains piezoelectric crystals. When an electric current is applied to these crystals, they vibrate at a very high frequencies, typically ranging from 1 to 3 million cycles per second (1 MHz or 3MHz), far beyond the range of human hearing.

When the ultrasound waves encounter body tissues, they cause microscopic vibrations within the cells. This mechanical action leads to several therapeutic effects:

Thermal Effect: As the sound waves vibrate through the tissues, they generate localised heat. This increase in temperature promotes vasodilation, expanding blood vessels and enhancing blood circulation delivering more oxygen and nutrients to damaged cells, accelerating the healing process and aiding the removal of metabolic waste products.
Non Thermal (Mechanical) Effects: Even at lower intensities or in pulsed mode, some ultrasound machine produce mechanical effects, These include, cavitation (the formation and oscillation of microscopic gas bubbles within tissue) and acoustic streaming (the unidirectional movement of fluids around vibrating structures). These mechanical forces stimulate cellular activity, increase cell membrane permeability, and facilitate the diffusion of ions and nutrients, which are crucial for the tissue repair and regeneration. This can help reduce swelling and inflammation.

To ensure effective transmission of the ultrasound waves into the body and minimising friction, a coupling medium, typically known as ultrasound gel, is applied to the skin prior to treatment. The transducer is then moved continuously in a small, overlapping circular motions over the targeted area. This constant movement prevents the concentration of ultrasound energy in one spot, which could lead to overheating or discomfort. Patients may experience a mild warmth or slight pulsing sensation during the treatment, indicating the therapeutic effects are taking place.

The energy from the ultrasound waves is gradually absorbed by the tissues as it penetrates deeper, with different tissues absorbing energy at varying rates. This controlled energy transfer is what makes therapeutic ultrasound an effective modality for promoting tissue healing, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain in a targeted manner.

Difference between 1MHz and 3MHz Ultrasound Machines

The frequency of an ultrasound machine is a critical parameter that determines the depth of penetration of the sound waves into the body's tissue. Our therapeutic ultrasound machines primarily operate at two distinct frequencies: 1MHz and 3MHz, each suited for different therapeutic applications.

Find out more about what the difference is between 1mhz ultrasound machines and 3mhz ultrasound machines

1MHz Ultrasound Machine
1MHz (1 million cycles per second) ultrasound machines product longer sound waves that penetrate deeper into the body. This makes them ideal for treating conditions affecting deeper tissues, such as large muscles, ligaments, tendons and joints that are not superficially located. The energy from 1 MHz Ultrasound machine waves is absorbed more gradually, allowing for therapeutic effects to reach structures like the hip joint, lower back muscles or deep seated scar tissue. These machines are particularly effective for:

Deep Tissue Injures: Addressing pain and inflammation in areas like the hamstrings, quadriceps or rotator cuff muscles.
Chronic conditions: Managing conditions such as osteoarthritis in larger joints (knees, hips) or deep seated myofascial pain syndromes.
Muscle Spasms and Stiffness: Providing relief and promoting relaxation in deep muscle layers.

3 MHz Ultrasound Machine
3 MHz (3 million cycles per second) ultrasound machines, on the other hand, generate shorter sound waves that are absorbed more superficially. This makes them highly effective for treating conditions closer to the skin's surface. The energy from 3 MHz ultrasound waves is absorbed more rapidly, leading to a quicker temperature increase in superficial tissues. These devices are specifically designed for:

Superficial Tissue Injuries: Treating conditions in areas like the hands, feet, elbows or superficial tendons (i.e. Achilles tendon).
Facial and Beauty Treatments: The Ultraform machine, which operates at 3MHz, is specifically designed for beauty and LED therapy. It's superficial penetration is ideal for stimulating collagen production, improving skin elasticity and reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles on the face and the neck. It is important to note that the Ultraform is not designed for pain relief.
Scar Tissue and Adhesions: Helping to break down and remodel superficial scar tissue and adhesions.

Our Specialised Ultrasound Machines

Beyond the general therapeutic portable ultrasound machines, we offer specialise devices tailored to unique needs:

Ultrasound and Stimulation Device: Dual Action Pain Relief
Our Ultrasound and Stimulation machine combines the therapeutic benefits of 1MHz Ultrasound with electrical stimulation (E-Stim) therapy, offering a comprehensive approach to pain relief and muscle rehabilitation. This dual-modality is designed to provide both the deep tissue healing capabilities of ultrasound and the immediate pain-reducing and muscle stimulating effect of electrical currents.

Find out: How 1MHz Ultrasound Machine can help with Back Pain

How it works:

1MHZ Ultrasound: As with our standard 1MHz therapeutic ultrasound machines, this device delivers deep penetrating sound waves to promote healing, reduce inflammation and alleviating pain in underlying issues.
Electrical Stimulation (E-Stim): E-Stim therapy involves applying low-level electrical currents to the skin through electrodes. These currents can:
- Block Pain Signals: By stimulating sensory nerves, E-Stim can interfere with the transmission of pain signals to the brain, providing immediate pain relief.
- Promotes Endorphin Release: It can also trigger the body's natural production of endorphins, which are natural painkillers.
- Muscle Contractions: Depending on the settings, E-Stim can cause muscle contradictions, which can help in muscle re-education, strengthening, and preventing atrophy, especially after injuries or surgery.

Benefits of the Combined Therapy

The synergy between electrical stimulation and ultrasound allows for a more robust therapeutic outcome. The ultrasound prepares the tissue by increasing blood flow and tissue extensibility, making it more receptive to the electrical stimulation. The combination is highly effective for:

Acute and Chronic Pain Management: Addressing a wide range of pain conditions, from acute injuries to persistent chronic pain.
Muscle Rehabilitation: Aiding in the recovery of muscle function, strength and endurance.
Reducing Swelling and Inflammation: The combined effects help to reduce edema and inflammatory responses.
Accelerated Healing: By enhancing circulation and cellular activity, the device supports faster tissue repair.

Find out more benefits of therapeutic ultrasound machines.

Ultraform: LED & Beauty Therapy Machine

The Ultraform is specifically designed for beauty and aesthetic applications, integrating 3MHz Ultrasound technology with LED Therapy. Unlike our therapeutic ultrasound machines aimed at pain relief and healing, the Ultraform focuses more on cosmetic benefits. The 3MHz ultrasound frequency ensures superficial penetration, making it ideal for facial treatments and enhancing skin health.

Key Benefits and Benefits of Ultraform

3MHz Ultrasound: Delivers high frequency sound waves that primarily affects the superficial layers of the skin. This promotes micro-circulation, stimulates collagen production, and enhances the absorption of skincare products, leading to improved skin elasticity and a more youthful appearance.
LED Therapy: Incorporates various light-emitting diode (LED) wavelengths, each offering distinct benefits for the skin. For example, red light therapy can reduce inflammation and promote cellular repair, while blue light therapy targets acne causing bacteria. The combination of ultrasound and LED therapy provides a synergistic effect, maximising cosmetic outcomes.
Find out more: Does LED Therapy work?
Non Pain Relief Focus: It is crucial to understand that the ultraform is not intended for pain relief or deep tissue healing. It's designed and functionality are exclusivity geared towards aesthetic improvements, making it a perfect addition to any beauty regime.