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What is ultrasound therapy?

Ultrasound therapy utilizes high-frequency sound waves that are directed at the injured or affected area of the body. These waves generate vibrations in the body's tissues, leading to a gentle heating effect. This thermal activity increases blood flow, relaxes muscle fibers, and promotes the body's natural healing processes. The process effectively reduces pain, inflammation, and muscle tension, making it an invaluable tool for athletes seeking quick and sustainable recovery.

At the Sport Medicine Clinic, our experienced therapists incorporate ultrasound therapy into personalized treatment plans to provide our patients with a comprehensive approach to sports injury management and recovery ensuring they can regain their full range of motion, reduce discomfort, and return to their active lifestyles in the shortest possible time.

When can ultrasound therapy help?

Therapists commonly use ultrasound therapy to treat various conditions, including but not limited to:

- Muscle strains & tears: accelerates muscle tissue healing and reduces pain
- Tendonitis: effective for conditions like tennis elbow and Achilles tendonitis
- Ligament injuries: assists in the healing of stretched or torn ligaments, such as sprained ankles
- Bursitis: reduces inflammation in bursae, aiding pain relief
- Swelling reduction: manages post-injury or post-surgery edema (swelling)
- Scar tissue management: helps soften and remodel scar tissue for improved tissue flexibility
- Calcific tendonitis: dissolves calcium deposits in tendons
- Carpal tunnel syndrome: provides relief from wrist pain
- Joint pain: effective for alleviating pain in various joints
- Arthritis: for managing pain and discomfort in arthritic joints

What should I expect from my first ultrasound therapy appointment?

Your therapist will apply a gel - which helps transmit the ultrasound waves and ensures proper contact with the skin - to the treatment area.

The therapist will then use the ultrasound device that emits high-frequency soundwaves. This device is gently moved over the treatment area.

You may feel a warming or tingling sensation during the treatment, but it should not be painful.

How long will my ultrasound therapy appointment be? How many sessions will I need?

The session's length may vary, but it typically lasts around 5 to 10 minutes for a specific area.

Depending on your condition, a series of treatments may be recommended, typically spaced out over a few weeks.

How quickly will I see results?

While results may not be immediate, you can expect gradual improvement over the course of your treatment plan.

Is ultrasound therapy covered by OHIP or my insurance?

Ultrasound therapy is not covered under your OHIP but may be covered by your extended health insurance plan. Please check your individual plans for more details. The Sport Medicine Clinic will provide you with an invoice to submit to your insurance company for reimbursement.

Do I need a referral to get ultrasound therapy at the Sport Medicine Clinic?

No referral is necessary for ultrasound therapy to be part of your treatment plan. Upon completion of your assessment, your therapist can advise you if ultrasound therapy is appropriate for your injury. 

Is the Sport Medicine Clinic accepting new patients for ultrasound therapy?

Yes! Please call 416-865-0903 or click here to book your appointment.