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The Secret of Ultrasound TherapyTherapeutic Ultrasound - a Quick Overview Therapeutic Ultrasound is a method of stimulating tissue beneath the skin's surface using sound waves. The sound waves are very high frequency, typically between 800,000Hz and 2,000,000Hz, and can penetrate up to 4 inches below the surface of your skin. The sound cannot be heard by humans or animals (humans can only hear sounds up to about 20,000Hz). This very high frequency sound affects very small molecules and cells in the body, and actually causes them to move around. The way ultrasound waves are transferred into the body is a function of many factors. The frequency of the ultrasound waves is actually opposite to how deep they will penetrate the body. For example, a 1MHz ultrasound will penetrate about 4 inches below the skin, whereas a 2MHz ultrasound unit will only penetrate about 2 inches. While a low frequency means deeper penetration, using too low of a frequency will mean that the waves are too wide to properly move the molecules. For therapeutic applications, 1MHz is the optimal frequency for both effectiveness and penetration. Dear MendMeShop, I am a runner and have been injured the last two months with a leg tendon injury. I purchased both the ultra sound and the leg inferno wrap about three weeks ago. I am now seeing great results where presently I can jog easy on it. So I am making progress. I will continue using both products as I suspect I will continue seeing results where I can race again. Great Product! Dennis M. Indiana, USA Rating: Power output is another significant factor. It is measured in watts per square centimeter. The higher the power, the more energy is transferred into the body. If too high a power output is used and an ultrasound unit is left sitting still on the body, it is possible to burn the tissue beneath the skin. While several professional ultrasound machines are capable of these high powers, your medical practitioner will typically use a lower power setting, below 1 watt per centimeter squared. More power is not necessarily better. Though some therapists may use higher powers to speed up ultrasound treatments, it is actually more effective to use a lower power setting for a longer period of time to achieve the optimal healing effect.  The power output rating is often broken down into two separate units: peak intensity and average intensity. Peak intensity can be thought of as how tall the sound waves being sent into your body are. The waves need to be large enough to affect the tissue and provide the desired therapeutic effect. At the same time, your body tissue needs breaks between groups of waves to cool down. So, Ultrasound machines actually send the waves in "pulses" (groups,) giving your body a vibrate-rest-vibrate-rest effect. The average intensity is a measure of how much energy is transferred over a period of vibrate-rest cycles.  Ultrasound machines provide a Total Power Output rating. High power units are typically used with large applicator heads to treat larger areas of the body. The important measurement part of ultrasound is the watts per square centimeter mentioned above, not the total unit power. Again, it is more effective to treat the affected area more frequently and for longer periods of time, using a lower power setting. When applied directly to the skin, an ultrasound device cannot effectively transfer the sound waves into the body. To make it work properly, a conductive medium is required - ultrasound gel. The gel simply makes it possible for the sound waves to travel from the unit head into your body. Ultrasound treatments without gel is ineffective, and can damage the ultrasound unit. What Does it Do?The heating and massaging effects of Therapeutic Ultrasound have two primary benefits. First, it increases blood flow to the treated area, which speeds the healing process. Second, it reduces swelling and edema, which are the main sources of pain.  Ultrasound can also be used to administer therapeutic medicines into the body, through a process called phonophoresis. In such a case, there are 3 benefits to a treatment, the first two from the massaging effect of ultrasound discussed above, and the third from phonophoretically administering the medication. Ultrasound treatments with Phonophoresis are rapidly becoming more popular than Ultrasound Therapy alone, due to the added benefits. For most injuries and ailments, a cycle of ultrasound therapy should optimally consist of 5-10 minute treatments, repeated 2-3 times per day for the duration of the healing period- this routine will mean fast, efficient healing, allowing you to get back to your normal life without being in pain. This surprises many people who have gone for single treatments in clincs only 2 or 3 times each week. The clinic approach, while providing the benefits of ultrasound therapy, simply become too expensive and too inconvenient. Ultrasound Gets Rid of Inflammation Fast!When you have a tendinitis or tenosynovitis injury, the area becomes inflamed as the damaged tissue cells release toxins. These toxins cause the injured area to be tender to touch, red, and sore to move. As the toxins and damaged cells accumulate, blood vessels become blocked and fluid gathers... resulting in swelling and pain. This is very much like the effect a dam has on a river - the flow is stopped and the fluid just builds up. MendMeShop Portable Ultrasound Helped Control the Swelling... I have begun to use the Ultrasound device and have had great results so far. I have had five orthopedic surguries in the past 18 months and use the device on several areas. I had two torn ligaments and two torn tendons in my left left ankle. I went through physical therapy for over two months but did not find anyway to reduce the swelling. After the first use of the device on Friday February 5th, I found the swelling to be greatly reduced. Now I can't use the device three times a day on all the areas that need attention, but once a day is working just fine. My wife has begun to use the device also and has noticed a difference with her tennis elbow. We couldn't be happier at this point. D. Vertuno, USA Rating: To rid the area of inflammation completely you need something to unblock the blood vessels and open the blood flow in the injury location. During ultrasound treatments, sound waves vibrate the soft tissue to reduce the blockage, decreasing the pooling of fluid and resupplying the injured area with much needed nutrients (allowing your injured cells to heal more quickly). Here's how it happens... The sound waves bounce against the tissue, scattering the fluid that causes inflammation. This unblocks the dam allowing blood to flow normally again. Increased blood flow helps whisk away dead cells and toxins from the injured tissue. The sound waves speed your body through the inflammatory process - reducing symptoms of pain, swelling, redness and heat - and open up vessels to deliver fresh blood for healing. ...the key to faster healing.Blood is your body's natural healer. It delivers oxygen and nutrients - elements crucial to regenerate and re-grow healthy tissue. Not only does ultrasound open up your blood vessels, it creates a thermal (warming) effect in the tissue cells. To counteract this warming effect, your body tries to cool the warmed tissue by sending blood to the area. This increases the amount of fresh oxygen and nutrients to the tendon for even faster healing! Therapeutic ultrasound increases the blood-flow to your sore tendon, enhancing your body's natural healing process in a non-invasive and painless way. Ultrasound Treats Your Painful Scar Tissue In most cases of a tear, strain, pull, or cartilage degeneration, scar tissue begins to form at the injury site, binding your tissues together abnormally. Unlike healthy tissue that works like a stretchy elastic band, scar tissue is tough and inflexible. Most of us know of someone that just can't seem to recover from a soft tissue injury - a good example is a runner that has injured their achilles tendon: the injury stops hurting so they start running again, and the scar tissue from the old injury just prevent the achilles from flexing properly, so they keep straining it time after time. In fact, 90% of runners that have injured their achilles will reinjure their achilles again... this is what scar tissue can do - it turns a short term injury into a long term recurring injury. Scar tissue limits the range of motion in your tendon (and attached muscle), greatly increasing the chance of re-injury (by overstraining), causes pain when stretching and can leave you vulnerable to a life time of chronic inflammation and pain. Ultrasound is Key for Long-Lasting Results Ultrasound therapy is an essential step in keeping your soft tissue injury from debilitating you later on in life! As the sound waves 'bounce' against the scar tissue they 'micro-massage' and soften it, increasing the elasticity and restoring your tissue back to its normal state - good as new. This is essential because renewed, elastic tissue is healthier and less prone to re-injury. Get rid of the scar tissue and you reduce the chance of a chronic (life-long) painful condition, like arthritis or tendonitis, from setting in. Scar tissue buildup makes it difficult and painful to move your limb easily, limiting your range of motion. As ultrasound treats your scar tissue you will notice it is easier to move again. This is a sign that your therapy is working. No scar tissue = improved flexibility & range of motionPhysical Therapy employs massage techniques to remove scar tissue and they are very effective though painful. Often the pain is too much to bear and in such cases you have a person that sacrifices flexibility because he/she cannot bear the pain of having the scar tissue "worked out". Ultrasonic waves soften tough scar tissue with no pain or impact - but keep in mind that it can take months of ultrasound treatment to reduce scar tissue, so its not a quick fix. Frequent Treatments = Quicker Results The biggest secret of ultrasound therapy is...the more you do it, the better it works. It's that simple - ultrasound softens painful scar tissue and speeds up the healing process. The treatments are easy, painless and the results are outstanding! What Can Be Treated With Ultrasound?An incredibly wide variety of ailments are treated using ultrasound. Essentially, ultrasound will help anywhere you need increased blood circulation and reduced swelling/edema.  Injuries to tendons, ligaments, muscles, and cartilage are excellent candidates for ultrasound treatments. Typically, these types of injuries are very slow to heal due to constant use and/or poor or slow blood circulation. Constant use of an injured area will only result in further injury. Regular applications of ultrasound therapy over the duration of the healing period will quickly and significantly reduce pain as well as recovery time- the ultrasound-stimulated tissue and increased blood flow speed the healing process, while the swelling/edema is reduced. Most professional athletes use ultrasound therapy as a preventative measure to protect themselves against injury. Using ultrasound before and after very physically demanding activities aids in the warm-up/warm-down process. Athletes with chronic ailments from previous injuries also use ultrasound to promote circulation to the injured area and to reduce any swelling and pain which may impact their performance. Many professional athletes have purchased personal ultrasound units, due to their frequent use.  People who suffer from chronic ailments associated with swelling and pain will also experience great benefit from ultrasound. Those who suffer from Arthritis, Bursitis, Carpal and Tarsal Tunnel Syndrome, or swollen discs use ultrasound to reduce the swelling and pain associated with their ailment. Non-chronic conditions, such as Plantar Fasciitis, heel spurs, arch pain, or soft tissue/joint injuries in general can be treated and even eliminated with ultrasound therapy. For conditions such as Arthritis, however, ultrasound therapy unfortunately cannot eliminate the disease, but it can reduce the pain and swelling significantly- this allows sufferers to get back to their normal day-to-day activities. When used for treating painful conditions such as these, ultrasound is typically applied using a medicated gel to gain the phonophoretic benefit as well. IDEAL PRODUCTS! I have been using the Ultrasound Therapy System and the Back/Hip Inferno Wrap in treating a hamstring tendon injury very high in the hip at the insertion point. I have had a 35% improvement in just 9 days of using both units. They are very practical and ideal for home use. Chris, Idaho USA Rating: As a therapeutic massage device, ultrasound is very effective at reducing muscle tension. People who suffer muscle tension headaches and migraines can use ultrasound on the back of the neck. This is a very common procedure used by massage therapists and chiropractors to treat headache sufferers.  Massage therapists will often offer ultrasound treatments in conjunction with regular massage, as a pain free method of releasing trigger points and "knots" in all the muscles. Using ultrasound on the trigger points of injured muscles helps to relax and reduce the trauma of the injury. When relaxed, the muscle can heal and recover from the injury much more quickly and more effectively, with less scar tissue formation. While full body ultrasound treatments are not practical, ultrasound treatments on specific injured areas are very effective. Why Do I Need Ultrasound Gel?When applied directly to the skin an ultrasound head cannot effectively transfer the sound waves into the body. To make it work properly, a conductive medium is required - ultrasound gel. The gel simply makes it possible for the sound waves to travel from the unit head into your body. Ultrasound without gel is ineffective and can damage the ultrasound machine. Is My Ultrasound Treatment Missing |
[5 of 5 Stars!]
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Tendon Injury Facts:
When the tendon gets inflamed it is known as tendonitis, and when the tendons are chronically overused, it may lead to microscopic tears in the collagen matrix and causes a gradual weakening of the tissues.
Achilles tendonitis is a common injury among runners, as the Achilles tendon is responsible for helping you lift off the ground with each stride.
As computers become ever more important elements of the work place and everyday life, incidents of wrist tendonitis are on the rise.
Oral Medications can mask the pain but do not aid in the healing of tendonitis. Anti-inflammatories and pain killers can cause tendonitis to worsen.
Ice and Compression are the easiest and most effective treatments for tendonitis.
Dear MendMeShop,
I also wanted to thank you so much for something you casually mentioned. In an email, you mentioned that I might want to look into a test to see if I had one leg shorter than the other because my knee pain was gone. Guess what- you were RIGHT! I went to an orthopaedic specialist who focuses on the foot and ankle. He was very casual and said I was healing fine. I insisted that he send me to someone who could make a brace of some sort. I can see that the same problem (posterior tibial tendonitis) was going to return if we did not get to the root of the problem. I insisted that he at least send me to a person. Fortunately, he sent me to a certified Orthodist. She found a slight discrepency in my right foot. (That's the one with the cast on it.) She is getting new orthodics for me- PLUS I asked about a brace that could keep my feet from over pronating. The Orthopaedic specialist said he could put me in an Arizona brace. I was molded for the brace yesterday. I truly appreciate your suggestion. No other doctor would have thought to check into it. I am now swimming and have no more pain in the right ankle. You have been a true blessing to me- in more ways than you will ever know. I know God had you pick up the phone when I called. Again- THANKS for your kindness and expert advice. Don't forget to send me a link so I can write a review. I know your gel along with your ultra sound helped speed up my recovery. Now I am on my way to being healthy again.
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A Williams
Dear MendMeShop,
Over the past eight months I have been suffering from shoulder and arm pain. I just kept thinking that the pain would go away on its own. When I reached the point where I was unable to raise my arm over my head without assistance and forget about putting my arm behind my back. I decided that a trip to the doctor was due. She ruled out that I had an injury to the Rotator Cuff itself and determined that I had a soft tissue injury. Due to repetitive movement and heavy lifting. She suggested that I try physical therapy. With my work schedule and family obligations I knew that was going to be very difficult and I wanted something that I could fit into my schedule. So I began doing research on the internet for alternative treatments and exercises. That’s when I found your product on the internet. I was somewhat skeptical as to rather it would perform as stated, but decided to give it a try. It was stated that it could take up to three weeks to feel results. BUT I am here to say that for myself it has done better. I have been using the “Ultrasound” and the “Freeze Warp” for a week and have already felt some improvement. I can now raise my arm to just about shoulder height unassisted, and can now almost get my finger tips back behind my back. I use the “Ultrasound” first thing each morning and try to throw in a second treatment in the early evening if possible. I make a point of using “Freeze Wrap” as soon as I get home from work to relieve the stress to my muscles from work and to keep the inflammation down. Now that I have gotten some of the inflammation gone I intend to incorporate the “Inferno Wrap” treatment to my regiment to just before going bed to aid the healing process and aid in a better night’s sleep.
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Nancy Jensen
Dear MendMeShop,
Prompt shipping. Arrived at my US address within five business days. Nice letter from the president indicates the company takes pride in its products. Well written instructions. No poor grammar you sometimes find in manuals for other products shipped from Asia (e.g., "Be sure to device turn off when done.") I occasionally get inflammation in the soft tissues of my elbow from a radial head injury I received while playing basketball several years ago. Tired of buying joint supplements and getting only marginal results from applying heat and ice, I started looking for something new. After using the ultrasound device 1-3 times a day for 3 weeks I have noticed improvement. Less discomfort in my elbow means less inflammation. The therapeutic gel is a nice addition. The menthol in the gel is not overbearing and does not leave an offensive smell that fills my office like some other creams. I am pleased with the product and will definitely continue to use. Regards, Dave C, PhD Healthcare research statistician
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Dave Collingridge
Dear MendMeShop,
I recently purchased the home ultrasound unit. I have only used it 3 times so far but do actually think I feel an improvement in my knee. I am also very impressed with the level of customer service your company provides. So rare these days. It is one of the reasons I chose to buy from your company over a competitor. Your easy return policy with no restocking fee is impressive.
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Donna Fox
Dear MendMeShop,
With the many portable ultrasound machines now circulating through internet stores, I was very impressive with the high quality of this portable ultrasound machine. It provides pain relieving ultrasound therapy with an informative manual and all natural ultrasound gel. The MendMeShop ultrasound unit effectively treats muscle, tissue, tendon and bone pain. I think this device can improve the quality of life for many suffering from chronic and acute injuries. Instead of paying to use an ultrasound machine at the chiropractor or physical therapist, now you can get the same benefits DAILY in the comfort of your own home. I highly recommend MendMeShop's products for all your therapeutic ultrasound needs.
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Christina Beggs
Dear MendMeShop,
This gel smells and feels wonderful, both during the ultrasound treatment and for about an hour afterward. After a week of treatment, my swelling has decreased by half. I'm glad that I purchased this product.
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Aletta Moffett
Dear MendMeShop,
I was skeptical at first as to be expected with anything being purchased online, however I decided to take my chances and just go for it. I tried all that I could to heal plantar fascilitis and nothing seemed to work for me, and the things that did work were taking wayyy to long. I got to the point where I was beyond frustrated I was so devastated that I couldn't run, or even sit for more than 5mins without standing up with excrucitaing pain. I turned to aid my tendon and so far I have nothing but pleasantries to say about it. I ordered the Night splint and inferno wrap and I use them everyday needless to say it has only been a week but I do see signs of serious improvement. It even almost seems like my healthy foot is getting jealous so sometimes I put the inferno wrap on it cause it is very soothing. I have only had it for a week so I cant give it a full 5 stars but I am expecting to be back in the next couple weeks updating my review with all pleasnt things Thanks.
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Emerrald Hutchinson
Dear MendMeShop,
I have to admit, I fully expected to be retuning my order. (inferno wrap, freezie wrap and ultra sound system) I told my wife "this is a lot of money and if doesn't work I'm sending it back", "I've got 60 days". Well after about 9 days of (2) treatments per day my sever case of Lateral Epicondylitis (tennis elbow) Is almost pain free. I tried wearing the over the counter tendon support brace with absolutely no results. My elbow pain was so bad I couldn't sleep at night and just knew I was going to have to see a doctor. Then I found Mendmeshop.com. I was very impressed with the quality of your wraps, very thick and made form high quality materials. I guess the old adage "you get what you pay for" speaks volumes here. Anyway The Lavender Ultrasound gel is wonderful, again worth every penny. I'm completely sold on your products and won't be returning anything!!! Thank you for helping heal my tennis elbow and I've already told many of my friends about your web site. 100% satisfied Cameron Caldwell from Meriden, KS.
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Cameron Caldwell
