ULTRASONIC TREATMENT CONTROLLER

A controller (10) for driving an ultrasonic transducer (14) is disclosed and includes a processor (16), responsive to a feedback signal, for generating control signals (40) to an output driver (18) which is responsive to the control signals (40), to cause the ultrasonic transducer (14) to generate ultrasound having a power level corresponding to the control signal (40). The controller (10) is preferably attached to a sensing circuit (12) to determine the amount of ultrasound conductive gel (22) associated with the ultrasonic transducer (14), and for generating the feedback signal therefrom. The controller (10) includes data logging capabilities to record treatment data and prevent unnecessary extended treatment. The controller (10) creates an environment for safer ultrasonic self-treatment by patients. The microprocessor (16) used in the controller (10) can be used to warn of a low battery (30) condition or insufficient amount of ultrasound conducting gel (22). It can limit the usage of the transducer (14) to prevent over treatment by comparing use data with acceptable limits and disabling the transducer (14) if the limits have been exceeded. The device is contemplated to be portable for ease of transport by patients.