Short Wave Diathermy (SWD) is a treatment that uses electromagnetic energy to produce deep heating in joints and soft tissues. This form of heat can be applied to deeper structures than other forms of heat treatment.

What is shortwave diathermy?

“Shortwave diathermy uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to generate heat. It may be applied in pulsed or continuous energy waves. It has been used to treat pain from kidney stones, and pelvic inflammatory disease. It’s commonly used for conditions that cause pain and muscle spasms.”

What are the two types of diathermy?

There are three main types of diathermy: shortwave, microwave, and ultrasound.

• Shortwave. Shortwave diathermy uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to generate heat.
• Microwave. Microwave diathermy uses microwaves to generate heat in the body.
• Ultrasound. Ultrasound diathermy uses sound waves to treat deep tissues.

What are the types of shortwave diathermy?

Respectively, there are two methods of the shortwave diathermy: Condenser shortwave diathermy (high-frequency electrical field) Induction shortwave diathermy (high-frequency magnetic field)

Is ShortWave diathermy harmful?

Leakage of electromagnetic fields (EMF) from short-wave radiofrequency physiotherapeutic diathermies (SWDs) may cause health and safety hazards affecting unintentionally exposed workers (W) or general public (GP) members (assisting patient exposed during treatment or presenting there for other reasons).

What is the function of SWD?

Short Wave Diathermy (SWD) is a treatment that uses electromagnetic energy to produce deep heating in joints and soft tissues. This form of heat can be applied to deeper structures than other forms of heat treatment.

What is monopolar diathermy?

In monopolar diathermy, as the current passes through the body, the current density decreases rapidly as the surface area the current acts across increases. Consequently, this allows for focused heating of tissues at the point of use, without heating up the body systemically.

Which current is used in diathermy?

Diathermy is produced by high-frequency, 13.56 MHz, alternating electrical current that generates heat because of the impedance (resistance) of the tissue through which it is passed.

How many types of diathermy are there?

The three forms of diathermy employed by physical therapists are ultrasound, short wave and microwave.

What are the physiological effects of shortwave diathermy?

Shortwave diathermy involves the therapeutic application of high-radiofrequency (usually 27.12 MHz [λ = 11.06 m]) electrical currents. Hyperemia, sedation, and analgesia are the basic physiologic effects.

What are the side effects of diathermy?

Results: The role of diathermy in surgical practice has expanded beyond imagination in recent years. The patient, surgeon and the theatre staff are frequently exposed to hazards such as burns injury, electrocution, hypoxic stress, inhalation of diathermy plume, and gene mutation.

What is the difference between shortwave and microwave diathermy?

Microwave diathermy, seldom used in the United States, uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves (2450 MHz; wavelength of 11 m) to heat tissues. Short- wave diathermy uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves that are similar to radio waves (10–100 MHz) to heat deep tissues.

What is UST physiotherapy?

Ultrasound therapy is an electrotherapy which has been used in physiotherapy practices for many years. It is mainly used for its non-thermal effect where high frequency sound waves cause vibrations and movement of cellular fluids.

What are the indications of short wave diathermy?

Shortwave diathermy

• Localized musculoskeletal pain.
• Inflammation (joint or tissue)
• Pain/spasm.
• Sprains/strains.
• Tendonitis.
• Tenosynovitis.
• Bursitis.
• Rheumatoid arthritis.

What is a contraindication for short wave diathermy?

Contraindications and Precautions SWD is contraindicated in areas with metal implants and in patients with pacemakers or implanted deep brain stimulators.