Ultrasound Therapy

Sound waves for deep tissue

Delivered with the Richmar TheraTouch CX2 with ultrasound applicator

Richmar TheraTouch CX2 unit with handheld therapeutic ultrasound applicator

Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves to generate gentle warmth deep inside muscle and soft tissue. Research on therapeutic ultrasound is mixed and varies by condition, with stronger support for some joint problems than others. It may help ease pain and support soft-tissue recovery as part of a broader treatment plan.

This is a treatment tool, not an imaging device. It is not the kind of ultrasound used to take pictures during pregnancy. The applicator delivers therapy to the tissue rather than producing an image on a screen.

What it can help with

  • Soft tissue injuries
  • Deep muscle strain
  • Tendon and ligament irritation
  • Scar tissue from past injuries
  • Areas with poor circulation

What a session is like

A small amount of gel is applied to the skin and the handheld applicator is moved in slow circles over the area. Most patients feel only light pressure and a mild, pleasant warmth. Sessions typically run 5 to 10 minutes per area.

Who it may not be right for

  • Pregnancy, over the low back or abdomen
  • Over a known or suspected tumor
  • Over a pacemaker or other implanted electronic device
  • An active blood clot (deep vein thrombosis)
  • Over the eyes or the front of the neck

When to seek emergency care

Ultrasound therapy treats comfort and mobility and is not a substitute for emergency care. Seek immediate medical attention for numbness, weakness, loss of movement, or any change in bladder or bowel control.

Medically reviewed

Reviewed by Dr. Milad Mandavi, D.C., California Chiropractic License #37275. Last reviewed July 11, 2026.

This information is for general education and is not a substitute for individual medical advice. Talk with a qualified provider about your specific condition.

Common questions

Is this the same ultrasound used for pregnancy imaging?

No. Imaging ultrasound produces a picture. Therapeutic ultrasound delivers sound waves into muscle and soft tissue as a treatment. Nothing is displayed and nothing is diagnosed; the purpose is healing, not imaging.

What does it feel like?

Most patients feel the glide of the applicator and a gentle warmth building in the tissue. Some feel very little at all, which is normal. It should never be painful.

How does it help an injury heal?

The sound waves create gentle warmth deep in the tissue, which may increase local blood flow and help relax fibers that have tightened around the injury. It is used as one part of a broader treatment plan rather than a standalone cure.

The information on this website is provided for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Individual treatment recommendations are based on a comprehensive examination and clinical findings.