What is a typical intensity range for thermal ultrasound in stimulating tissue heating?

• A. 0.05–0.2 W/cm2
• B. 2.5–3.5 W/cm2
• C. 5.0–7.0 W/cm2
• D. 0.5–2.0 W/cm2

Answer: (D)

Thermal ultrasound relies on continuous energy delivery to raise tissue temperature for heating effects. To achieve meaningful heating while staying safe, clinicians use moderate intensities; around 0.5 to 2.0 W/cm2 is typical. At the low end, you get a gentle warming, and at the high end you can achieve more significant heating within a standard treatment time, with monitoring to avoid overheating. Lower ranges like 0.05–0.2 W/cm2 don’t produce much heating and are more aligned with non-thermal effects or diagnostic imaging, while higher ranges such as 2.5–3.5 W/cm2 or 5.0–7.0 W/cm2 carry greater risk of excessive heating and tissue damage.