Diathermy is the heat which has been induced electrically or with the use of electromagnetic currents of high frequency which is used for physical therapy or occupational therapy along with surgical procedures. Diathermy field was pioneered by German Physician in 1907 whose name was Karl Franz Nagelschmidt.
Diathermy is mostly used for relaxation of muscles as well as inducing deep heating in the tissue. It is used in occupational and physical therapy to offer a moderate amount of heat in the deep tissues directly.
Diathermy effect is produced by total three different techniques. The methods differ in the penetration capacity as follows:
- Ultrasound
The ultrasound i.e. ultrasonic diathermy uses the sound waves in the treatment of deep tissues.
- Shortwave
The shortwave diathermy makes the use of high-frequency to cause heat in the affected area. It uses radio frequencies in 1-100 MHz frequency.
- Microwave
The Microwave diathermy uses microwaves to produce heat in the body. The microwaves operate in bands of 915 MHz or 2.45 GHz.
The heat caused by Diathermy helps in following:
- Increases the blood flow
- Relieves the pain
- Improves the condition of inflammation
Advantages of diathermy machine unit
The treatment of inflammation and pain with diathermy increases the blood flow making the connective tissues flexible. It helps in reducing the incidence of edema and fluid retention. The increase in blood flow of the affected area with the help of diathermy can make the healing process quick.
Following conditions can be treated with Diathermy:
- Muscle spasm
- Back pain
- Fibromyalgia
- Arthritis
- Myositis
- Sprains
- Strains
- Neuralgia
- Bursitis
- Tendonitis
Who can undergo diathermy?
Normal individuals can undergo diathermy after consulting with a doctor. However, people with any implants will be at risk of injury. The devices include:
- Intrauterine device(IUD)
- Pacemaker
- Prosthesis
The diathermy treatment should be avoided by people if they have:
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Cancer
- Infections
- Less skin sensation
- Fractured/Broken bones
- Pregnancy
- Wound dressing
- Bleeding disorders
- Perspiration
- Heart/ kidney or liver condition
Diathermy is not recommended for certain body parts such as:
- Heart
- Brain
- Eyes
- Ears
- Reproductive organs
- Spinal cord
- Genitals
After the diathermy treatment has been performed, the area would feel flexible. The increased blood flow will not only help in the healing process but also lead to the tissue repair.
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