The ultrasound-guided electrolysis therapy (USGET) in sports medicine: clinical evidence and molecular insights

Objectives: To synthesize molecular and clinical evidence on Ultrasound-Guided Electrolysis Therapy (USGET) for sports-related tendon and muscle disorders, emphasizing its modulatory tissue effects and the importance of ultrasound guidance. Methods: Narrative clinical review including randomized trials, cohort studies, long-term follow-ups, preclinical models, and molecular investigations on USGET in tendinopathies and muscle injuries. Key Results: On a molecular level, USGET applies a galvanic current that modulates tissue responses: in chronic tendinopathies, it initiates a controlled inflammatory reaction promoting collagen-I remodeling, among others; in acute muscle injuries, it dampens excessive inflammation and promotes inflammation resolution. Preclinical data confirm reductions of pro-inflammatory mediators and stimulation of angiogenic and reparative pathways. Clinically, the strongest evidence is in patellar tendinopathy, including randomized controlled trials and long-term follow-up. Additional supportive data exist for lateral epicondylitis, subacromial pain syndrome, and adductor-related groin pain. Long-term studies demonstrate sustained improvement in function and pain reduction. A clear dose–response effect exists: adequate dosing is required for regeneration, while excessive current can cause local damage, underscoring the need for protocol standardization. Ultrasound guidance enhances safety and precision, allowing targeted application to degenerative regions while minimizing risk to surrounding structures. Conclusions: USGET is a minimally invasive therapy with growing evidence, particularly in chronic tendinopathy, and acts through tissue-specific modulation. Standardization of dosing parameters, further comparative trials, and integration of real-world data registries are necessary to consolidate its role in sports medicine practice.