Diathermy Flashcards
what is short wave diathermy
electromagnetic energy produces deep heat within tissues - 5cm
types of short wave diathermy
continuous - thermal
pulsed - non thermal
continuous thermal
increases temp in deeper structures
pulsed nonthermal
allows dissipation of heat during the off cycle and can result in other physiological/therapeutic benefits
two methods
electrical field (capacitive) method magnetic field (inductive) method
physiological effects of thermal
increase temp to deep and superficial tissues
increased soft tissue extensibility
increased nerve conduction
vasodilation
indications and goals for thermal
increase joint ROM
pain
increase tissue healing
physiological effects for nonthermal
increase microvascular perfusion
increase local tissue oxygenation
increase cell growth and phagocytosis
indications and goals for nonthermal
pain control
decrease edema
resolution of acute and chronic infxns
wound control and soft tissue healing
contraindications
pregnancy - therapist or pt
implanted neural or cardiac stimulators
(thermal) open epiphyses, metal implants and jewlery, malignancy, near the testes or eyes
(nonthermal) over diseased internal organs, over metal loops that secure plates and rods
precautions
use of equipment near electronics or magnetic equipment
pt or nearby personal with metal bearing intrauterine devices
capacitive method =
electric field method
in the capacitive method, where is the body placed
btw two electrically charged plates, becomes part of the circuit
how does capacitive method work
- current flows from plate through pt to the other plate
- particles ossillate and tissue temperature increases
what is there a risk of with capacitive method
electrical burn if the pt’s skin touches the electrode/plate
