An osteoarthritic knee has damaged joint surfaces, inflamation and swelling. This creates a stagnant environment. Just like a saturated sponge will not accept more water, the osteoarthritic joint is slow to soak up nutrients. However, ultrasound delivered at a low volume for a long time through a newly designed compact transducer agitates remaining cartilage and tissues. The ultrasound penetrates the joint and tissues. It stimulates the joint thermally and mechanically and improves permeability, creating a dynamic environment conducive to healing. Similar to a sponge that has been wrung out, the treated knee is now able to absorb nutrients. The waste is removed and swelling subsides.

Full story at:
http://www.nsf.gov/news/news_summ.jsp?cntn_id=116640

Accolades:
“Looks great. Thanks so much! Very professional.”

--George K Lewis
Presidential and NSF Fellow
Cornell Biomedical Engineering

“Very cool – love the sponge analogy!”

--Maria Zacharias
Media Affairs Section Head
National Science Foundation

Also featured in:
PhysOrg
http://www.physorg.com/news188486849.html

Red Orbit
http://www.redorbit.com/news/health/1839195/athome_ultrasound_could_treat_chronic_pain/

Nano Patents and Innovations
http://nanopatentsandinnovations.blogspot.com/2010/03/new-ultrasound-device-may-allow.html