May
Injury Rehabilitation and Training, Sports Injuries and Management, Treatment Modalities and Aids
Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound for Fracture Healing
What is LIPUS?
LIPUS (Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound) is a form of ultrasound therapy that delivers much lower intensity soundwaves compared to traditional ultrasound. Unlike continuous ultrasound, LIPUS uses soundwaves produced in pulses. It is primarily used to assist bone healing and aims to accelerate tissue regeneration and recovery at the cellular level. LIPUS is non-invasive and painless, making it an ideal treatment option to speed up recovery following fractures or ORIF (Open-Reduction Internal Fixation) procedures.
When is an ORIF Done?
Open-Reduction Internal Fixation (ORIF) is a surgical procedure used to treat severe fractures, particularly those involving bone displacement. It involves repositioning the bones and securing them with hardware such as plates, screws, or rods to provide mechanical stability and promote healing.
How Can Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Help After a Fracture or an ORIF?
While ORIF provides the structural support needed for healing, it does not actively accelerate the biological healing process. This is where LIPUS becomes beneficial. LIPUS is especially effective in cases of delayed union of the bones. It enhances the body’s natural repair mechanisms, supporting the healing of fractures even after surgical intervention.
What Injuries Can LIPUS Be Used For?
- Tibial shaft fractures
- Stress fractures
- Scaphoid fractures
- Clavicle fractures
- Humerus fractures
- Radial fractures
- Fractures in patients with comorbidities (e.g., diabetes, osteoporosis)
- Delayed healing of fractures observed at follow-up imaging
- Displaced fractures after an ORIF procedure
- Recovery from tendon and ligament injuries
How Does Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Work?
LIPUS enhances biological repair by:
- Stimulating osteoblasts, the cells responsible for new bone formation
- Reducing local inflammation
- Increasing the expression of key growth factors:
- BMPs (Bone Morphogenetic Proteins) – crucial for bone regeneration
- VEGF (Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor) – essential for new blood vessel formation (angiogenesis)
How Is LIPUS Recommended to Be Used?
For best results:
- Apply the transducer directly over the fracture site
- Use LIPUS for 20 minutes daily
- Begin treatment as soon as possible, ideally within the first two weeks after injury
Who Can Provide Low-Intensity Pulsed Ultrasound Following a Fracture or ORIF?
Physiotherapists trained in ultrasound therapy can administer LIPUS in clinical settings. Some physiotherapy clinics also offer LIPUS devices for rent, allowing patients to apply the treatment at home under professional guidance. Your physiotherapist will teach you correct placement and usage to ensure optimal outcomes. Please note: Sydney Physio Clinic does not currently hire out LIPUS units.
When Should I Avoid Using LIPUS?
- If there is an active infection at or near the site
- If metal hardware fully obstructs the ultrasound pathway
- If the fracture site is inaccessible for transducer placement
Conclusion
LIPUS offers a non-invasive and effective way to accelerate biological healing after fractures and ORIF surgery. It bridges the gap between mechanical stabilisation and complete functional recovery. If you’re uncertain whether LIPUS is suitable for you, contact Sydney Physio Clinic to create a personalised rehabilitation plan.
