our services:

Ultrasound Therapy
Vancouver

Evidence-based deep tissue acoustic therapy treatment for
soft tissue injuries and chronic conditions.

Clinical Ultrasound Therapy

Therapeutic ultrasound has been a cornerstone of physiotherapy practice since the 1940s, with decades of research supporting its efficacy. Unlike diagnostic ultrasound (which creates images), ultrasound therapy delivers high-frequency sound waves into tissues to promote healing and reduce inflammation.

At VanCity Physio, our Vancouver physiotherapists use therapeutic ultrasound strategically within comprehensive treatment programs. It's not a standalone solution but rather a valuable component that enhances the effects of manual therapy and exercise rehabilitation by stimulating tissues and accelerating healing.
Ultrasound therapy works through both thermal (heating) and non-thermal (mechanical) mechanisms, depending on treatment parameters. Your physiotherapist determines the appropriate application based on your specific issues, stage of healing, and treatment goals.

Conditions Ultrasound Therapy Addresses

Ultrasound therapy is most effective for:

Soft tissue injuries

  • Muscle strains and contusions
  • Ligament sprains
  • Tendonitis and tendinopathy
  • Plantar fasciitis
  • Rotator cuff injuries

Scar tissue and adhesions

  • Post-surgical scarring
  • Chronic adhesions restricting mobility
  • Myofascial restrictions
  • Contractures

Joint conditions:

  • Osteoarthritis (for pain relief and improved mobility)
  • Joint capsule tightness
  • Bursitis

Other applications

  • Delayed wound healing (non-thermal mode)
  • Bone healing (stress fractures, delayed unions)
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Trigger point treatment
Ultrasound therapy is particularly valuable when tissue
restrictions are deep or when manual therapy alone doesn't
adequately address the root cause.

Treatment Timeline and Expectations

TMJ disorders vary in complexity and chronicity.
Treatment timelines reflect this:

Acute TMJ dysfunction (recent onset)

4-8 weeks of treatment with 1-2 sessions per week. Many acute cases respond quickly to manual therapy and exercise.

Chronic TMJ disorders (present for months to years)

8-16+ weeks of treatment. Chronic conditions require longer intervention to address ingrained movement patterns, muscle changes, and sensitization.

What you'll feel:

  • Non-thermal ultrasound: Nothing, or very subtle sensation.
  • Thermal ultrasound: Gentle, comfortable warming sensation.
  • Joint sounds (clicking, crepitus)
  • Assessment of jaw deviation or deflection
  • Joint and accessory motion testing
Ultrasound physiotherapy treatment is typically painless.

Integration with other treatments

Ultrasound is most effective when combined with:
  • Manual therapy immediately following ultrasound (tissues are more pliable when warmed)
  • Stretching exercises while tissues are heated
  • Strengthening exercises as part of comprehensive rehabilitation
Ultrasound prepares tissues; other interventions capitalize on those changes.

Clinical Ultrasound Therapy

No special preparation needed. Wear clothing that allows easy
access to the treatment area.
Inform your physiotherapist about:
  • Metal implants or medical devices
  • Pregnancy (current or possible)
  • Recent cortisone injections
  • Circulation problems
  • Cancer history
  • Any concerns about treatment areas
Skin should be clean and free of lotions or oils (though gel will be applied during treatment).

Post-Treatment Response

Normal responses:
  • Mild warmth in the treated area (resolves within minutes)
  • Improved tissue mobility and range of motion
  • Reduced pain and stiffness
Some patients notice immediate improvement, while others experience gradual change over multiple sessions.
Self-care after ultrasound physiotherapy
  • Perform prescribed stretches while tissues remain warm (if recommended)
  • Continue with home exercise program
  • Stay hydrated to support tissue healing
Adverse reactions are rare when ultrasound is administered properly. Contact your physiotherapist if you experience unusual pain, burning, or skin changes.
Adverse reactions are rare when ultrasound is administered properly.
Contact your physiotherapist if you experience unusual pain, burning, or skin changes.

Treatment Timeline

Ultrasound is typically applied 1-3 times per week as part of your physiotherapy sessions

Effects are cumulative. Single sessions provide temporary benefits, but consistent application creates lasting tissue changes.

Progress Markers

  • Decreased pain
  • Improved tissue mobility
  • Increased range of motion
  • Better response to stretching and exercise

Shockwave Therapy Fees & Booking

Ultrasound is a preparatory modality that creates optimal conditions for other interventions and promotes healing. However, it doesn't build strength, correct movement patterns, or address biomechanical contributors to injury.

Optimal outcomes require

  • Ultrasound for tissue preparation and healing enhancement
  • Manual therapy to restore joint and soft tissue mobility
  • Exercise to build strength and motor control
  • Education and activity modification to address causative factors
  • Patient compliance with home programs
  • This multimodal approach addresses both tissue pathology and functional capacity.

Ultrasound Therapy Booking & Fees

Ultrasound therapy is administered as part of your physiotherapy session. To book, select "Clinical Physiotherapy" from our online platform.

All treatment modalities including ultrasound, manual therapy, and exercise prescription are included in session fees.

Most extended health plans cover ultrasound therapy when included in physiotherapy treatment. Direct billing is available.

testimonials

Results that speak for themselves

VanCity Physio Kinesiology Success Stories
VanCity Physio has played a pivotal role in my journey to healing my back after a car accident in 2017. Their positive attitude and ability to build instant rapport with each of his clients constantly amazes me.

Their dedication to solving the mystery behind my injury and constant support in advocating for my health has been a necessary component to the success I've had treating this injury.

I trust VanCity Physio fully with this injury and I will undoubtedly be visiting any time I need to see a physiotherapist in the future. Do yourself a favour and book in now!
— Gabrielle D
I recently suffered an injury from playing sports. I had a lot of trouble walking without pain but working with VanCity Physio helped me quickly return to what I love doing most. Injuries don't just affect a person physically, but can take an emotional toll.

Having a physiotherapist who is knowledgeable in their practice, patient with explaining my condition and being personable to work made all the difference in my full recovery
— Fiona Chiu
I wanted to take a moment to write you a note of gratitude for your time and efforts during my recovery.

Your attitude, depth of knowledge, and commitment really helped me through one of the roughest times in my life.
— M. Goddard

Frequently Asked Questions About Ultrasound Therapy

HOW IT WORKS

Ultrasounds can be both thermal and non-thermal, and work by creating a piezoelectric effect caused by the vibration of crystals in the probe’s head. As ultrasound waves pass through the skin, the vibration causes deep heating locally within the patient. Think of it like a heating pad that you’d place on sore muscles. You will not feel any heat sensation unless you are receiving a thermal dose, in which case you may feel a slight warming sensation. Thermal and non-thermal methods may be used interchangeably depending on the physiotherapist’s recommendations.

WHAT TO EXPECT

Your physiotherapist will start by conducting a physical exam and review any medical history or relevant documents. Once an assessment is made for your condition, recommendations for treatments will follow. During your ultrasound treatment, the transducer will be covered in gel and slowly moved in a circular direction on the injured area. Wave and intensity settings will be determined by your physiotherapist prior to treatment.

HOW TO PREPARE

Whenever starting a new physiotherapy program, bring a list of any medications to your first appointment, along with any relevant X-rays and MRIs. If you’re experiencing pain symptoms beforehand, make a note of them and be sure to tell your therapist ahead of time. If you are involved in an accident claim with ICBC, be sure to get treatment approval before your sessions begin.

POST-SESSION

You should feel some mild improvement in symptoms and reduction of pain within 24-48 hours.

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FEES

To book, please select Clinical Physiotherapy from our online booking platform. To maximize your session’s value, and take advantage of our diverse treatment options, fees are inclusive of all treatments used during your session. Your physiotherapist will work with you to help assess which treatments will be most beneficial during your visit.

VanCity Physio offers direct billing.