Non-thermal US is associated with which outcome?

• A. Increased edema
• B. Worsened mobility
• C. Pain relief and wound healing
• D. Increased inflammation

Answer: (C)

Non-thermal ultrasound uses pulsed waves to produce mechanical effects rather than heat. Those mechanical actions—microstreaming and cavitation—increase cell membrane permeability and stimulate cellular activity, which promotes fibroblast function, collagen synthesis, and new blood vessel formation. This combination accelerates tissue repair and can help reduce pain and inflammation, leading to improved healing and function. For that reason, pain relief and wound healing is the outcome most consistently associated with non-thermal US. Increased edema or inflammation would be less likely with a pulsed, non-heating application, and any worsening of mobility would more likely stem from continued injury or inadequate healing, not the non-thermal modality itself.