Any PTs around? Would a fetal doppler work for ultrasound pain relief therapy?

Question

I've been in agonizing pain in my neck upper back, and trapezius muscle right below my shoulder-blade for a long time. I'm 27, so I've had a hard time with doctors telling me that I'm young and I should be able to bare the pain and its probably some muscle spasms. Fortuantely, I finally got on MRI scheduled for later this week. Also, my physical therapist found that ultrasound relieves some of my pain. I was wondering if anyone knows if a fetal heart doppler which works through ultrasound waves would work in the same way. I bought one on ebay when I was pregnant with my daughter and thought it would be great if I could do the therapy at home since the relief is really short-lived. But on the other hand, my back is such a volatile environment that I don't want to do anything to rock the boat if it isn't a good idea.

Answer 1

No, because it is a different frequency and intensity.  Fetal doppler ultrasound is a much lower frequency (so it goes deeper), but much less intense (power).  Therefore, it does not have the same beneficial effects as theraputic ultrasound.  (although I'm not much of a believer in theraputic ultrasound anyway...for the very reason you said...it's very short lived)...you can get the same effects from a hot pack. )

Have you seen a PT who is certified in mechanical diagnosis and therapy?  That would usually be my first suggestions ( http://www.mckenziemdt.org )