What is the recommended duty cycle for soft tissue healing in ultrasound therapy?

The recommended duty cycle for soft tissue healing in ultrasound therapy is 20%. This lower duty cycle is particularly effective because it allows for a greater amount of time in which the tissue can absorb the ultrasound energy without causing excessive heating or irritation. The intermittent delivery of ultrasound facilitates increased blood flow and promotes cellular repair processes, which are critical for healing.

In soft tissue healing, the focus is often on fostering a biological response while minimizing the thermal effects that higher duty cycles can induce. A 20% duty cycle strikes a balance between delivering effective therapeutic ultrasound and ensuring that the treatment remains safe and beneficial to the tissue in the healing process. Utilizing this duty cycle helps prevent potential adverse effects associated with prolonged heating, making it ideal for managing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration.