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Effects of Different Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Intensities and Durations on a Post-Traumatic Knee Joint
Ryo Nakahara1, Akira Ito2, Momoko Nagai-Tanima2
1Department of Motor Function Analysis, Human Health Sciences, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan; Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan.
Ultrasound in Medicine & Biology
|November 27, 2024
Summary
Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) therapy can improve knee joint range of motion and reduce intra-articular adhesion after trauma. Optimal LIPUS parameters may enhance rehabilitation for knee joint dysfunction following injury or surgery.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Regenerative Medicine
- Physical Therapy
Background:
- Knee joint dysfunction following trauma or surgery can lead to significant mobility impairment.
- Immobilization exacerbates joint contracture and adhesion, hindering recovery.
- Non-invasive therapeutic modalities are sought for post-traumatic knee rehabilitation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the therapeutic effects of low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS) on knee joint dysfunction after immobilization.
- To determine the optimal LIPUS intensity and duration for treating post-traumatic knee joint contracture (PTJC).
Main Methods:
- A PTJC rat model was established and divided into LIPUS and sham groups.
- LIPUS was applied at various intensities (30-120 mW/cm² SATA) and durations (5-20 min).
- Knee range of motion (ROM), posterior joint capsule length, and intra-articular adhesion were evaluated.
Main Results:
- Frontal LIPUS irradiation significantly improved knee ROM and intrinsic joint ROM.
- LIPUS treatment increased posterior joint capsule length.
- Higher intensity and longer duration LIPUS (120 mW/cm²-20 min) significantly reduced intra-articular adhesion compared to lower settings (30 mW/cm²-5 min).
Conclusions:
- LIPUS therapy demonstrates potential as a rehabilitation approach for preventing knee joint dysfunction.
- The effects of LIPUS intensity and duration on adhesion reduction are additive rather than synergistic.
- Further research into optimal LIPUS parameters is warranted for clinical application.
