Effect of Intensity of Ultrasound on Conduction of Motor Axons

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Abstract
This investigation compares the effect of varying intensities of ultrasound on the conductivity of human motor axons. Results confirm that ultrasound can significantly alter peripheral nerve propagation. Intensities on the order of 0.5 watts/ cm2 tend to increase motor nerve conduction velocity of the ulnar nerve. Intensities from 1 watt/ cm2 to 2 watts/cm2 tend to decrease the conduction velocity, whereas intensities of 3 watts/cm2 tend to increase it. A comparison of the amplitude of muscle action potentials preceding and following ulnar nerve sonation also was made. Many of the actions of ultrasound on various tissues may be explained on the basis of primary action of the neural element.