Diathermy is a therapeutic treatment most commonly prescribed for joint conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. In diathermy, a high-frequency electric current is delivered via shortwave, microwave, or ultrasound to generate deep heat in body tissues.
The heat can be used to increase blood flow or to relieve pain.
Shortwave diathermy uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to generate heat. It may be applied in pulsed or continuous energy waves. It is used to treat pain from sinusitis, kidney stones, and pelvic infections. It is effective for conditions that cause pain and muscle spasms.
It can be effective in providing some relief and treatment of symptoms related to:
- arthritis
- back pain
- fibromyalgia
- muscle spasms
- myositis
- neuralgia
- sprains and strains
- tenosynovitis
- tendonitis
- bone injuries
- bursitis
During shortwave, two electrodes are positioned near the affected area. In ultrasound diathermy, a therapist moves a wand continuously over the affected area.
The patient is asked to remain still while the treatment is being administered. The patient feels a warm or tingling sensation during the treatment.
After diathermy, rehabilitative exercises are sometimes encouraged. These can make the most of the added range of motion and flexibility brought by the treatment.
Consult at Aadil hospital medical and physical therapy.
