Diathermy

Shortwave diathermy generates an electromagnetic wave, which is very similar to therapeutic ultrasound. The major differences are the ultrasound exits the transducer head and converges to a point, while the diathermy waves exit in a straight parallel pattern, perpendicular to the larger diathermy head. The typical ultrasound therapeutic session can efficiently treat an area, approximately the size of a grapefruit, which is more localized than the 10-14 inch diameter diathermy head, which treats a larger area. Although they can be interchangeable at times, the ultrasound does a better job at the bone-muscle-ligament interface, while the diathermy concentrates more of its energy in the belly of the muscles. The diathermy brings soothing relief to many patients, who are suffering from back pain, spasm, bursitis, arthritis, and other musculoskeletal conditions.
Diathermy also acts as a sedative to irritated nerves and induces relaxation and increased movement of muscles and ligaments. In addition to its healing benefits, diathermy helps make movement and stretching easier and less painful.
For instance, with an injured or inflamed joint, such as sprained knee, hip, back, or frozen shoulder, the treatment objectives are to relieve pain, prevent stiffness, and restore restricted movement. Diathermy is frequently the most effective means for accomplishing these aims because the deep heat relieves the pain, relaxes the muscle fibers, and permits easier movement.
Diathermy also has a soothing and relaxing effect on the type of muscle spasms and contractures often seen in low back pain, rheumatoid arthritis, and some spinal disc problems. This type of heat, by going deep into the structures, can often bring about complete relief, which lasts for hours and sometimes for days and weeks at a time. Spastic conditions of the stomach, gallbladder and intestines, often respond well to the application of diathermy.