Introduction

Abstract

Physical medicine was initially named not based on the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions but the use of physical modalities, including electrical stimulation, diathermy, heat, cold, and ultrasound. The American Institute of Ultrasound Medicine, broadly recognized as the premier association for medical ultrasound, was originally founded in the 1950s by 24 physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians with a common interest in ultrasonic energy as a medical tool (Valente C, Wagner S. J Ultrasound Med. 24:131–142, 2005). The use of ultrasound in obstetrics, cardiology, and emergency medicine grew exponentially from the 1960s onward. As ultrasound technology improved, the ability and the way physical medicine and rehabilitation is practiced transformed as well. Whether a specialist in spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, sports medicine, pain management, or pediatrics, ultrasound can play a role in the diagnosis and treatment of your patients.