What is the micromassage effect during ultrasound treatment?

One of the lesser-known effects of ultrasound treatment is the so-called micromassage. This is a mechanical phenomenon in which ultrasound waves create fine vibrations in the treated tissues.

These tiny vibrations can promote fluid flow between tissues and contribute to better mobility of connective tissues and muscles. The effect is as if the tissues are receiving a very gentle, deep massage – all without touch.

What exactly is ultrasound treatment?

Ultrasound treatment does not work with electric current but uses mechanical energy. Although often classified among electrotherapies, it actually belongs to the group of so-called electrophysical treatments.

Ultrasound is essentially a very high-frequency sound vibration. The upper limit of sounds audible to the human ear is approximately 16–20,000 Hz, but ultrasound operates in a much higher range. The frequency of ultrasound used for therapeutic purposes is typically 1 or 3 MHz, which means millions of vibrations per second.

Why is ultrasound treatment effective and beneficial?

• energy transfer aids the body's natural healing processes.
• can help reduce or even eliminate the need for pain-relieving medications
• pain-free, gentle, and non-invasive procedure
• treatment is quick and convenient
• no known side effects when applied professionally
• generally considered safe for the majority of patients

When is ultrasound treatment recommended?

Ultrasound therapy is one of the most versatile physiotherapy treatments, as it can simultaneously reduce pain, alleviate inflammation, and accelerate tissue regeneration. It offers a gentle yet effective solution for many ailments.

Particularly good results can be achieved for the following problems:

Musculoskeletal diseases and injuries

Joint inflammations (arthrosis, arthritis)

Helps reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve joint range of motion.

Frozen shoulder

Relaxes muscles and connective tissue, contributing to more pain-free movement.

Sports injuries

Effectively supports faster recovery after sprains, strains, and muscle tears.

In cases of chronic pain

Back pain, spinal problems, disc issues

Relieves pain, reduces muscle tension, and improves spinal mobility.

Nerve-related pain

Can help alleviate complaints such as sciatica or other forms of nerve pain.

Gynecological and urological problems

Chronic prostatitis

Can reduce inflammation and improve circulation in the pelvic area.

Gynecological inflammations

Can contribute to alleviating inflammatory processes and supporting regeneration.

Post-surgery and injury regeneration

Hematomas, bruises

Accelerates the absorption of swelling and tissue healing.

Muscle injuries and muscle spasms

Relaxes muscles, reduces pain, and improves well-being.

Is it considered a medical device?

No, the device is not considered a medical device, therefore it does not replace medical treatment. It can only be used for home, supplementary, well-being purposes on the body parts to be treated.

How does therapeutic ultrasound help tissue healing?

Therapeutic ultrasound has long been used in the treatment of musculoskeletal complaints, as it effectively supports the regeneration of damaged tissues. The aim of the treatment is not only to shorten the healing time but also to ensure that the restored tissues are stronger, more flexible, and more resilient.

How does ultrasound affect the body?

As ultrasound waves pass through tissues, they cause the particles within the cells to vibrate gently. These particles do not “travel” with the wave but vibrate in place, which transfers energy to the tissues.

This process:

• promotes tissue activation
• supports intercellular metabolism
• can contribute to initiating regeneration processes

The vibrations can also generate a slight heat, but the primary goal of modern ultrasound treatments is not heating, but rather targeted, deep stimulation of the tissues.

How does an ultrasound device work?

The device transmits vibrations into the tissues through a special treatment head. A crystal within the treatment head compresses and relaxes in response to an electrical signal, thus creating the ultrasound waves. This phenomenon is called the piezoelectric effect.

How long does an ultrasound treatment last?

An ultrasound treatment usually lasts 5-10 minutes. This duration is sufficient for the treatment to exert its beneficial effects while remaining gentle on the tissues.

The exact treatment time may depend on:

• the size of the treated area
• the nature of the problem
• the current stage of healing
  

The treatment is always adjusted to be effective but not to overstress the tissues, thus providing a safe and comfortable experience.

Can it be used over clothing?

No. The area to be treated should be bare, as the device's treatment head must be in direct contact with the skin, so no clothing should be present.

When can the first results be expected?

The effect of ultrasound treatment depends on several factors, so the changes experienced may vary from person to person.

• Some patients experience reduced pain after the first treatment.
• For others, improvement only appears after several sessions.
• The result largely depends on overall health, age, pain intensity, and the medically diagnosed problem.

What intensity should be chosen for the first ultrasound treatment?

It is advisable to choose a low intensity for the first session. As you get used to the treatment, the intensity can be gradually increased for a comfortable and effective treatment.

Do I need to press the treatment head hard against the skin for it to be effective?

No, the treatment head only needs to be placed gently on the skin. To ensure effective ultrasound transmission, always use an adequate amount of gel to fill the gap between the skin and the head.

Can the device be used without gel?

It is not recommended to use it without gel. The gel ensures that the ultrasound energy is not lost in the air and that the treatment is effective and safe. Without gel, the physical effect decreases, and the probe itself may even be damaged.

What is the best body position during ultrasound treatment?

Relax the body part to be treated and be in a comfortable, calm position, as this will make the treatment most effective and comfortable.

When is ultrasound treatment not applicable?

Although ultrasound therapy is a safe method, it cannot be used in certain cases. It is always necessary to assess the condition before starting the treatment.

Ultrasound treatment is not recommended if:

• pregnancy is present
• the area to be treated is the spine or around the eyes
• an active infection is present in the area
• a pacemaker or other implanted cardiac device is present
• a recent bone fracture or severe osteoporosis is present
• an implanted medical device, such as a metal implant, is located in the area to be treated
• a tumor is present in or near the area
• epilepsy is present
• arterial problems, acute phlebitis, or thrombosis are present

Is ultrasound treatment painful?

Ultrasound treatment is not painful. If the therapist continuously moves the treatment head – as professionally prescribed – the treatment is comfortable and well-tolerated.

It is possible that the patient feels almost nothing during the treatment, at most the initial coolness of the applied gel. In more sensitive areas or with fresh injuries, a slight discomfort may occur when the treatment head passes over the area, but this is not considered painful.

What constitutes improper use of ultrasound treatment?

Improper use is when the device is not used according to professional guidelines:

• the treatment head is held in one place for too long, which can cause skin irritation
• not enough gel is used, so the energy does not reach the tissues
• contraindications are ignored (e.g., pacemaker, tumor, fresh wound)
• unprofessional disassembly or repair at home

Why is ultrasound gel necessary for the treatment?

During ultrasound treatment, the treatment head must always be coated with ultrasound gel, as this ensures proper transmission of waves into the tissues. The use of water or other substances is prohibited, as it reduces the effectiveness of the treatment and can even cause skin irritation.

What safety rules must be observed when using the device?

• Electrical safety: always connect the device to a grounded outlet.
• Explosion protection: do not use in areas where flammable gases may be present.
• Unplug the device before disinfection or cleaning to avoid accidents.

Is there any device or method with which it is not recommended to combine?

Do not combine ultrasound treatment with other devices that produce strong heat or electrical effects in the same area, unless specifically authorized by the treating professional. Always observe contraindications and the device's user manual.

What are the safety requirements for the product?

1. Do not use the device near water or with wet hands, as there is a risk of electric shock.
2. Never attempt to disassemble or repair the device yourself.
3. Keep the device away from children and pets – during use, they could easily injure themselves or others.
4. Never direct the ultrasound head towards the eyes, throat, or heart area.
5. Do not use near fresh wounds, inflamed skin, cancerous lesions, or thrombosis – these require medical consultation.
6. If you experience unusual noise, vibration, or smell while the device is operating, turn it off immediately and have it checked.
7. Do not use on individuals with pacemakers or near any implanted electronic devices without medical authorization.
8. Excessive pressure from the device head can cause pain or skin damage – always move it gently and slowly.
9. Do not leave the device near heaters, heat sources, or direct sunlight – plastic and electronics can be damaged.
10. Regularly check the power cord and connectors, and do not use damaged equipment.
11. Clean the treatment head with alcohol, but do not immerse it in water to avoid damage to the electronics.
12. Do not combine with other electrical therapy devices in the same area, as unexpected side effects may occur.
13. Do not use alcohol or anesthetic cream on the treated skin, as you will not feel the effect of the ultrasound, which could lead to injury.
14. Monitor your own comfort during use – stop treatment immediately if you experience numbness, tingling, or pain.
15. Always store the device on a stable, flat surface and do not allow it to fall or tip over.
16. Never perform ultrasound treatment for too long in a single area – take short breaks for skin and tissue regeneration.
17. Do not use the device during pregnancy, menstruation, or in cases of severe illness without medical consultation.
18. The device does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment; always consult a specialist if you have health problems.
19. Do not leave the device directly next to sharp objects, as the treatment head or cable could be damaged.
20. For safe operation of the device, always use the settings recommended by the manufacturer; do not experiment with extreme frequencies or intensities.