Diathermy Flashcards
1
Q
What is diathermy?
A
short wave electromagnetic energy used to heat tissue. usually deep tissue places
2
Q
Does diathermy heat a larger area then ultrasound?
A
Yes
3
Q
What are two types of inductive coil diathermy?
A
- cables
- drums
4
Q
Do capacitive plates heat deeper than inductive coils?
A
No
5
Q
Which diathermy applicator is used to treat a small defined area?
A
magnetron and it has a higher risk of burns
6
Q
What are the thermal effects of diathermy?
A
Vasodilation Increased rates of nerve conduction Elevation of pain threshold Alteration of muscle strength Alteration of enzymatic activity Increased soft tissue extensibility
7
Q
Mechanism of diathermy
A
starts by electrical energy, converted to electromagnetic energy, does not reflects off bones so they do not heat
8
Q
what is a precaution for capacitive plates?
A
fat tissue is more likely to be burned
9
Q
What are they contraindications?
A
- Implanted or transcutaneous neural stimulators, including cardiac pacemakers.
- Pregnancy