What is the primary reason for applying gel during ultrasound treatment?

Applying gel during ultrasound treatment ensures proper sound wave transmission from the ultrasound transducer into the tissue being treated. The gel acts as a medium that fills any air gap between the skin and the transducer, facilitating better conduction of sound waves. Because ultrasound relies on the transmission of sound waves through tissues to achieve therapeutic effects, eliminating air pockets ensures that the waves can effectively penetrate the skin and reach deeper tissues without significant loss of energy. This is crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic outcomes, such as reducing pain or promoting tissue healing.

While reducing skin irritation and enhancing aesthetic appeal can be secondary benefits of using gel, their primary function aligns closely with enhancing the transmission qualities of the ultrasound treatment.