Device for Dual Ultrasound and Dry Needling Trigger Points Treatment.

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Physical Therapy

Background:

• Ultrasound therapy is utilized for its thermal and non-thermal effects on biological tissues.
• Effective ultrasound application depends on precise localization and energy delivery.
• Dry needling is a therapeutic technique with localized effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a new device integrating ultrasound and dry needling.
• To investigate the potential of non-thermal ultrasound effects to augment dry needling outcomes.
• To present a system for precise ultrasound energy delivery to needle tips.

Main Methods:

• Development of a novel device combining ultrasound transducer and dry needling.
• Implementation of a 3D mechanical rotation for transducer alignment with the needle.
• Utilizing electronic focusing to target acoustic pressure on the needle tip and surrounding areas.
• Employing computer control with graphical interface software for array angulation and focus adjustment.

Main Results:

• The device enables precise mechanical alignment of the ultrasound transducer with the needle.
• Electronic focusing accurately directs acoustic pressure to the needle tip.
• Computer control facilitates automated adjustments for optimal energy delivery.

Conclusions:

• The described device offers a new approach to combining ultrasound and dry needling.
• Precise, automated control of ultrasound energy delivery is achievable.
• This technology has the potential to enhance the efficacy of combined therapeutic interventions.