Question
My dr. recently used ultrasound to treat my shoulder pain, assuming it was bursitis.  He forgot to change the power from 100%, and held it in one place for many seconds, which was painful for me.  This was my first experience w/ ultrasound, and I thought it was normal for it to hurt, so I did not move.  Now, my shoulder hurts much worse than before, especially in that spot, and my range of motion is limited, and I have pain down my arm.  My question is: Will this heal?  

The original pain was not in my shoulder joint, but rather on the shoulder blade, more on the back. (I also still have this problem.)

Thank you for your time,
April


Answer
I have never used ultrasound in my practice.  It is possible to cause an internal "burn" if ultrasound is used improperly.  I would suggest you use ice on your shoulder, but also that you consult with a *good* orthopedic surgeon if it does not improve soon.  I also suggest you see a good chiropractor about the shoulder blade pain.  (If it was a chiropractic doctor who treated you with the ultrasound...see a different one.)