Which of the following is a mechanical benefit of ultrasound therapy?

• A. Increased inflammation
• B. Improved healing of soft tissue and bone
• C. Reduced edema
• D. Increased pain

Answer: (B)

Ultrasound therapy brings about mechanical effects through cavitation and microstreaming, which physically stimulate tissues at the cellular level. This mechanical agitation increases cell membrane permeability and drives processes like collagen production, fibroblast activity, and new blood vessel formation. Those cellular responses accelerate repair, leading to improved healing of soft tissues and bone. The other options describe inflammatory, edema, or pain outcomes, which are not the direct mechanical benefits of ultrasound.