What Is Shortwave Diathermy?
Shortwave Diathermy (SWD) is a physiotherapy modality that uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy and generates heat in the body tissues. The depth of tissue penetration is generally equal to or greater than ultrasound and greater than any infrared modalities. The deep tissue effect stimulates vasodilation (dilation of the blood vessels) and increases the amount of blood flow to the affected area.
SWD works well for musculoskeletal conditions such as strains, tendonitis, tenosynovitis, bursitis, ligament sprains, and osteoarthritis. The thermal effects created by SWD are local muscle relaxation, decreased pain and muscle spasm, improved joint range of motion, increased elasticity of collagen fibers, and increase circulation.
The doctors at Health 1st Wellness & Physical Medicine have found that SWD works exceptionally well for chronic bursitis, whether it’s in the shoulders, knees, or hips. They use SWD with ointments such as Biofreeze to enhance the effects. The SWD opens the pores on the surface of the skin and allows Biofreeze to rapidly penetrate deep into the tissues. SWD is beneficial for bursitis pain, and works well for chronic back, hip, or shoulder pain.