Shortwave and Microwave

Diathermy
ESSM 321 Technique and
Theory of Therapeutic Modalities
Diathermy
Application of high-frequency
electromagnetic energy that is used to
generate heat in body tissues
Heat produced by resistance of the tissue
to the passage of the energy
2 Types
2 types
Shortwave
Microwave
Physiological Responses to
Diathermy Thermal Effects
Primary benefits are those of heat in
general
Increase of 1C = reduce mild
inflammation and increase metabolism
Increase of 2 to 3C = decreased pain
& muscle spasm
Increases above 3 to 4 C = increased
tissue extensibility
Physiological Responses to
Diathermy Nonthermal Effects
Pulsed diathermy may
cause repolarization of
damaged cells
Corrects cell dysfunction
Magnetic fields and Na
pumps
Shortwave Diathermy
Frequency = 27.12 MHz
Wavelength = 11 m
Frequency = 13.56 MHz
Wavelength = 22m
Shortwave Diathermy
Generators
Output intensity
Tuning control
Power output meter
Specific absorption rate (SAR)
Shortwave Diathermy
Electrodes
Capacitor Electrodes
Air Space Plates
Pad Electrodes
Shortwave Diathermy Electrodes
Induction Electrodes
Cable Electrodes
Drum Electrodes
Heat Distribution
Treatment Time
15 minutes produced vigorous
heating of triceps surae
20-30 minutes is most likely adequate
More than 30 minutes can result in
circulatory rebound phenomenon
Microwave Diathermy
Frequency = 2456 MHz or 915 MHz
Shorter wavelength than shortwave
diathermy
Strong electrical field, small magnetic
field
Microwave Diathermy
Applicators
Electrodes = applicators
Circular applicators
Rectangular applicators
Microwave Treatment
Techniques
Director should be positioned at a right
angle to the skin
Clinical Applications For
Diathermy
Muscle strains
Contusions
Ligament sprains
Tendinitis
Tenosynovitis
Bursitis
J oint contractures
Myofascial trigger
points
Osteoarthritis
Local relaxation
Deceased joint
stiffness
Increased
extensibility of
collagen fibers
Increased circulation
Decrease subacute
& chronic pain
Diathermy Treatment
Considerations
Too many to list here
Guidelines for the Safe Use of
Diathermy
Question athlete
Position athlete
Inspect part to be
treated
Drape w/ toweling as
indicated
Place electrode drum on
treatment area
Turn on unit
Set pulse duration
Set pulse frequency
Adjust intensity
Set treatment time
Press start button
Periodically check
athlete
Timer off = end of
treatment = turn all
dials to 0
Assess treatment
efficacy
Record treatment
parameters