Short wave diathermy

Short wave diathermy is methode which uses the termal effect of high frequency current, which passes through the tissues. An oscillating circuit is source of electromagnetic waves and it is connected to high frequency amplifier. A high frequence(27,12 MHz with wavelength 11,06 m) will ensure a good passage of current through the skin and other tissues without an interpolar or irritant effect.

Types of electrodes
Different types of electrodes are used for transfer of high-frequency energy to the patient. A body organ is during irradiation in a capacitor field between two metal electrodes, which are well isolated. A part of body is wrapped up by several threads during a heating. The hreads are also well isolated. Special electrodes are used in gynecology.

Principle
The development of heat in the tissues leads to dilatation of vascular bed, improvement of tissue nutrition, accelerating the absorption of effusions, pain suppression, release of smooth muscle spasms. An increase in body temperature may occure in the case of irradiation of large body parts.

It is important to pay attention to take care during irradiation that no metal objects in body  must stand in the way of the high-frequency waves(e.g metal objects after bone surgery, join replacement) nor should there be anything of metallic origin on the surface(rings, chains, pacemakers).

Utilization
Utilization of short wave diathermy is the most used for treatment of the musculoskeletal system in chronic inflammation. It is also used for back pain relief, limb circulation disorder, treatment of some gynecologic illnesses or degenerative disease of little and big joint connection.

Aplication of high-frequency currents
High-frequency currents are applied continuosly ot pulsed. The power about 300-600 Watt is used for a continuosly aplication. The pacient can fell a pleasant warmth around the electrodes. The pulse application uses higher powers up to 1000 Watt. The patient does not fell anything during the procedure.

Reference
NAVRÁTIL, Leoš a Jozef ROSINA, et al. Medicínská biofyzika. 1. vydání. Praha : Grada, 2005. 524 s. ISBN 80-247-1152-4