Which of the following is a contraindication to therapeutic ultrasound?

• A. Recent vaccination
• B. Pregnancy
• C. Regular exercise
• D. Hypotension

Answer: (B)

Therapeutic ultrasound delivers energy to tissues to promote healing by heating tissue and producing mechanical effects. Because of this energy, there are safety limits on where it can be used. Pregnancy is a contraindication because heating tissues in the abdomen or pelvic area could affect fetal development. For that reason, ultrasound is avoided in pregnant patients, especially over the uterus.

The other options don’t represent standard contraindications. A recent vaccination isn’t a reason to withhold ultrasound, and being physically active isn’t a barrier to treatment. Hypotension isn’t listed as a general contraindication to ultrasound; the clinician would monitor and adjust treatment as needed if a patient’s blood pressure is a concern.