Diathermy / Deep Tissue Heat Treatment

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.

The specialists at Saint Vincent Sports Medicine offer PPT – Performance, Prevention and Treatment – strategies for athletes of all ages. For more information about the exercise that’s right for you, contact Saint Vincent Sports Medicine at 814-866-3466.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.