Critical survey and panel review of sustained acoustic medicine in the treatment of sports-related musculoskeletal injuries by professional sports athletic trainers

Abstract

Background: The purpose of our study was two-fold. First, it was to discover American professional sports athletic trainers' (PSAT) use and opinions regarding the treatment with a small, portable ultrasound Sustained Acoustic Medicine (SAM) device on their athletes. Second, it was to discover the effectiveness of SAM treatment in their professional sports players (PSP).

Methods: There were two ways of collecting data from the PSATs. The first was by written survey. Questions included qualitative and quantitative feedback on SAM device use, clinical applications, and acceptance among PSP. The second part involved a panel discussion of four PSATs, who shared their personal experiences with SAM. Questions focused on the use of the technology, confidence level, manner of application, and communication with PSPs regarding the application of the SAM and recommended treatment protocols.

Results: The survey found that SAM is wearable, easy to use, comfortable, and that it can be used as a "go-to" device outside of the athletic training facility. PSATs reported an 87% satisfaction and increased confidence in the ability of SAM to accelerate the healing process. Thus, SAM was considered a recommended treatment for professional athletes to use as an adjunct therapy. PSATs agreed that SAM is one of the recommended choices as an adjunct therapy in multiple musculoskeletal injuries.

Conclusions: The survey and panel discussion concluded that SAM treatment is easy to use with no adverse effects and can be used at multiple stages of the healing process.

Level of evidence: Level IV.

Keywords: acute inflammation; chronic inflammation; continuous low-intensity ultrasound; critical survey; round table panel; sports-related injuries; sustained acoustic medicine.