Diathermy Deep tissue Heat Treatment

October 1, 2009 by: DoctorG

Diathermy is a deep tissue heat treatment. The temperature of the injured tissues is raised by high frequency current, ultrasonic waves, or microwave radiation.

Like surface heating, deep heat is used to:

reduce pain
relieve muscle spasm
decrease soft-tissue contractures
resolve inflammation and
promote healing

Deep heat speeds up healing by increasing blood flow to the injury. It may be used after cold treatments when inflammation and swelling are gone. Deep heat may be used to treat chronic arthritis, bursitis, fractures, gynecologic diseases, and other problems.

Electromagnetic heat, such as shortwaves and microwaves, sends heat up to two inches into the tissue and muscles. It works best for injuries in joints, muscles, and tendons. However, electromagnetic heat should not be used over any areas that are wet or filled with fluid or metal objects because the risk for burning is too great. These areas include: eyes, a pregnant uterus, blisters, moist skin or clothing, perspiration, wound dressings, intrauterine device, and, a pacemaker.

Treatments with electromagnetic heat last about 15 minutes and are given 2 to 3 times per day for 3 to 14 days. Safety eye goggles should be worn by both the patient and therapist. For more great information on Physical Therapy, visit our website at www.DoctorGendron.com.