Methods and techniques for conducting UHF therapy procedures. UHF electric field is an accessible and effective method of physiotherapy for acute inflammatory diseases. What therapeutic effect does UHF therapy have?


It is always worth remembering the negative features of any treatment method. UHF therapy can cause adverse reactions from various organs.

Most likely unwanted effects:

  • Formation of a burn on the skin when using incorrect insulation on a metal plate or when using a wet pad.
  • Electric shock to a person when touching exposed electrical wires of a switched-on device. Modern devices have good electrical insulation to reduce the risk of this phenomenon to a minimum.
  • Risk of blood loss when using the technique before surgery or puncture of cavities. UHF therapy should not be used on the eve of such operations.
  • Impact on the vasomotor and respiratory centers with bilateral use of therapy during the treatment of ENT diseases.
  • Pneumosclerosis is the formation of connective tissue in the lungs. A complication can result from excessive use of UHF during the treatment of pneumonia.
  • Adhesive disease - in the case of using therapy after surgical operations on body cavities.
  • Pacemaker malfunction. This complication can be excluded by properly collecting the patient’s medical history.

From the above we can conclude that the risk of complications increases if restrictions are not observed. Correct use of the method allows you to avoid adverse reactions with almost one hundred percent probability.

Operating principle of the device

An electromagnetic device emits rays that have the following effects on the human body:

  • changes in cellular structure at the physical and biochemical level;
  • heating of tissues, as high-frequency rays gradually turn into thermal radiation.

The UHF device has the following components:

  • a generator that produces high-frequency radiation that is active against most tissues of the body;
  • electrodes (they have special plates and act as a conductor);
  • inductors (these devices are responsible for generating a specially tuned magnetic field);
  • emitters of electromagnetic waves.

For stationary exposure the following types of devices are used:

  • "UHF-300";
  • "Screen-2";
  • "Impulse-2";
  • "Impulse-3".

UHF therapy can also be carried out using portable devices. The most commonly used:

  • "UHF-30";
  • "UHF-66";
  • "UHF-80-04".

Devices for ultra-high-frequency therapy differ in power. Thus, UHF-5 devices and their analogues, UHF-30 and the like have low indicators (up to 30 W). Average power (up to 80 watts) is developed by such devices as the UHF-66 or 50 apparatus of the “Mouth” and “Undaterm” types. Devices of the Ekran-2, UHF-300, etc. series have high power, that is, over 80 W. Today, various devices are used that can operate in pulse mode. The mechanism of action of all such devices is similar.

Methodology

To prevent the treatment process from becoming an exciting procedure for you, you should first familiarize yourself with the progress of the treatment.

The technique implies the following points:

  1. The patient or part of his body is placed on a wooden surface - usually a simple couch or chair.
  2. Plates with capacitors are selected according to the expected area of ​​influence on the body.
  3. The plates are arranged transversely or longitudinally with a minimum gap. This avoids unwanted energy distribution outside the impact site.
  4. Select the required force of influence, which is divided into 4 categories. The patient feels each of them differently: without a feeling of warmth (1st stage), a slight feeling of warmth (2nd stage), a distinct feeling (3rd stage) and a pronounced feeling of warmth (4th stage). Each disease requires a specific regimen of use.
  5. Having selected the necessary parameters, continue influencing the pathological focus for 10–15 minutes.
  6. Repeat the procedure daily or every other day 10–15 times.

When are UHF procedures indicated?

Various factors are taken into account before prescribing such treatment:

  • age (as a rule, for children the duration of warming up is proportionally reduced);
  • course of pathology;
  • general health of the patient;
  • the presence of concomitant diseases (some of them may have contraindications).

UHF is often prescribed for inflammatory processes in the body. This is especially true for acute lesions. During such ailments, blood cells and infiltrate accumulate in the sore spot. Under the influence of high-frequency inflammation, it dissolves faster, which is why the symptoms of inflammation pass faster.

It is possible to use a UHF-66 or other device for purulent processes. However, in this case, the use of UHF is justified and permissible only when there is a channel for draining the infiltrate. So such an indication does not mean that the patient will necessarily undergo such therapy. The general indications for physiotherapy are as follows:

  • pathologies of the upper respiratory tract;
  • ENT diseases;
  • diseases of the heart and blood vessels;
  • digestive pathologies;
  • diseases of the urinary and reproductive system;
  • dermatological pathological processes;
  • various disorders of the central nervous system;
  • dysfunction of the musculoskeletal system;
  • eye diseases, especially of infectious and inflammatory origin;
  • dental diseases;
  • recovery period after surgery.

Advantages and disadvantages

Comparing the advantages and disadvantages of any treatment method allows you to make the right decision about the advisability of a particular therapy. Exposure to ultra-high-frequency currents is characterized by a number of advantages:

  • A large number of indications for use.
  • Therapeutic effect without the use of medications.
  • Short duration of the procedure.
  • Lack of invasiveness and pain during treatment.
  • Possibility of use in children.
  • Excellent effect in the treatment of joint diseases and inflammatory pathologies.

The method also has quite a few disadvantages. They need to be considered not only by the patient, but also by the doctor. The main disadvantages include:

  • Inability to use at home.
  • The presence of a number of contraindications, including any trimester of pregnancy.
  • Possibility of developing side effects and burns if used incorrectly.
  • High risk of connective tissue proliferation in areas of injury.
  • Impossibility of long-term use - course mode of application.

These features do not allow UHF therapy to become a widespread method of treating inflammatory diseases. However, in certain situations, this procedure can significantly alleviate the health condition.

Mechanism of action in various diseases

Depending on when UHF physiotherapy is prescribed, its effect on the human body is different:

  1. In case of pathologies of the respiratory system, high-frequency radiation leads to rapid inhibition of the activity of pathogenic bacteria. The UHF therapy device has an immunorestorative effect on the human body; it kills a large number of pathogenic microorganisms. This creates good conditions for the healing of diseased areas of these organs.
  2. For hypertension and other pathologies of the heart and blood vessels, this device improves central and peripheral blood circulation. The contractile activity of the heart muscle increases significantly. Improving vascular tone, in turn, helps reduce the intensity of inflammatory processes in the body.
  3. The choice of UHF therapy in the treatment of the digestive system is explained by the fact that it helps strengthen the immune system and tissue activity. Physiotherapy also has a pronounced analgesic effect. That is why it is often prescribed for acute cholecystitis, pancreatitis, inflammation of the small or large intestine. Under the influence of high-frequency radiation, healing of ulcers and other pathologically altered areas occurs. Accordingly, all inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract proceed more easily, and recovery occurs much faster.
  4. UHF treatment is also used for inflammatory phenomena in the genitourinary system. Blood supply to affected organs of the body improves, swelling and inflammation decrease.
  5. UHF prevents the development of purulent lesions of the skin and mucous membranes. This is especially true in cases where the inflammatory process is in an acute purulent phase. Due to the pronounced bactericidal effect, the effectiveness of the negative phenomenon decreases. The protective function of the skin is also stimulated, which is why the inflammatory process goes away very quickly.
  6. Ultra-high background electromagnetic radiation is also used for the treatment of major nervous pathologies. UHF inhibits processes in the central nervous system that lead to pain syndromes. Due to the significant improvement in blood circulation processes, the nervous tissue is restored faster and the recovery period is thus significantly accelerated. As a result, in some clinics the treatment of radiculitis, osteochondrosis, osteoarthrosis and other similar pathologies using UHF devices is the main thing.
  7. It has been proven that high UHF frequency improves metabolic processes in the membranes of the eye. This way it is possible to reduce the intensity of inflammatory processes in the membranes of the organs of vision and significantly improve their functionality. Some patients note that after UHF their vision improves. This can be explained by the fact that the intensity of metabolic processes in the membranes of the eye increases and blood circulation improves.

To clarify the need for UHF, the doctor may need to decipher some examinations (for example, ultrasound, MRI, etc.).

— the number of pathogenic bacteria decreases;

- the number of leukocytes increases and their effect increases;

- blood circulation improves;

— the immune system is activated and the body’s protective functions are increased;

- capillaries dilate and vascular tone decreases;

— metabolism improves and intestinal motor function is stimulated;

— spasms of smooth muscles are relieved;

— improves the outflow of mucus during sinusitis or bronchitis;

- swelling goes away and inflammation decreases;

- pain sensations are reduced;

- the person relaxes, calms down.

Benefits and harms

Having studied the mechanism of action of magnetic vibrations on humans, scientists noted the positive effect of currents on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

Among the most important beneficial effects:

  • stimulation of blood circulation;
  • acceleration of lymph flow;
  • stabilization of cell membranes;
  • restoration of cellular respiration;
  • increased capillary permeability;
  • stimulation of immune defense.

However, if you neglect the basic rules of the procedures, unpleasant consequences will arise. For example, during inflammation, you should not heat the damaged area - this will lead to the proliferation of pathogenic cells. In addition, electromagnetic currents interfere with the functioning of the pacemaker.

Decoding the results

Depending on the dosage chosen, the following changes may occur in the human body:

  • the phagocytic activity of white blood cells increases, they begin to fight pathogens of dangerous diseases;
  • the degree of exudation activity decreases, that is, the penetration of effusion into the tissue due to a drop in the intensity of inflammatory processes;
  • fibroblasts are activated (they are responsible for the formation of connective tissues in the body);
  • the permeability of capillary walls increases;
  • Metabolic processes in all tissues and organs are stimulated.

The scheme for using UHF treatment is, in most cases, standard. The duration of the procedures does not exceed 15 minutes (and sometimes less). Warming up will be effective if it is done every day (or every other day). The duration of treatment is determined by the doctor. The duration of therapy will be individual in each case.

Side effects

Undesirable reactions from the procedure can be avoided if the doctor takes into account all indications and contraindications, and also correctly selects and configures the device for a particular patient. Otherwise, the following side effects may occur:

  • burns - if you accidentally touch a metal plate during the procedure;
  • bleeding – occurs due to vasodilation or tissue heating, so contraindications must be taken into account;
  • scar formation– occurs as a result of the development of connective tissue, which begins to limit the source of inflammation and prevents the spread of infection;
  • electric shock– as a result of non-compliance with safety measures.

Thus, UHF therapy helps to cope with various diseases in a short time, but provided that the procedure is used correctly, taking into account the indications and contraindications for each individual patient. The effect of the procedure occurs quite quickly.

In some cases, UHF treatment may be associated with certain side effects in the body. These include the following:

  1. Skin burns - occur mainly due to the fact that the doctor used wet pads during the procedure. The same happens if the electrodes come into contact with the skin.
  2. If EHF is used before surgery, the risk of bleeding increases significantly. Increased bleeding can also occur in tissues directly irradiated by high-frequency waves.
  3. Scars appear because high-frequency rays stimulate the development of connective tissue. In some cases, for example after abdominal surgery, such treatment is not recommended.
  4. In rare cases, electrical shock may also cause tissue damage. This often happens if the patient does not follow safety rules and comes into contact with exposed wires of the devices.

In addition to positive effects, side reactions may also occur. The most dangerous are burns.

It is forbidden to carry out the procedure before operations, as this increases the risk of bleeding. UHF cannot be performed immediately after surgery - there is a risk of developing adhesive disease.

Excessive use in the treatment of pneumonia leads to pneumosclerosis. For ENT pathologies, the bilateral use of UHF therapy affects the respiratory and vasomotor centers.

If safety precautions are violated, you may receive an electric shock.

Conclusion

UHF is used to treat various diseases. The effectiveness of treatment is quite high. Physiotherapy can be used even during the acute period of the disease, as well as during recovery after surgical treatment. If safety precautions are observed, the technique does not harm the body, but only brings benefits.

UHF therapy is a physiotherapeutic method of treatment with a very high frequency electromagnetic field. It is used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases.

Like any other medical procedure, UHF therapy has a number of contraindications and side effects. However, for many diseases, the use of this method of physiotherapy significantly improves the patient's health and well-being.

UHF therapy is one of the popular techniques widely used in the treatment of ENT diseases, diseases of the musculoskeletal, nervous, genitourinary and other body systems. Therapeutic procedures can be carried out both in a medical facility and at home.

What is UHF?

The name of this procedure stands for: ultra-high-frequency therapy. This technique involves exposing problem areas to a strong or weak electromagnetic field. The oscillation frequency can be 27.12 MHz or 40.68 MHz. During this procedure, two electric fields are simultaneously applied: one coming from the device, and the second from the human body.

Lymph, urine and blood have high current conductivity. In these liquids, charged particles oscillate at the same frequency as in an electromagnetic field. In addition, energy absorption occurs in this environment, accompanied by the release of heat. In this case, a directly proportional effect is observed. In other words, the more energy absorbed, the greater the thermal effect. Based on this, UHF is heating (as it is popularly called). This corresponds to the effect on the body.

UHF action

This procedure has a considerable list of effects on the body. UHF radiation has the following effects:

  • reduces pain;
  • reduces blood pressure;
  • fights inflammation;
  • reduces swelling;
  • stimulates blood circulation;
  • has a desensitizing effect.

UHF therapy device

To carry out such procedures, two types of equipment are used:

  • stationary;
  • portable.

The first group includes the following devices:

  • UHF-300;
  • Impulse-2;
  • Screen-2;
  • Impulse-3.

The most commonly used portable equipment is:

  • UHF-30;
  • UHF-66;
  • UHF-80-04.

The standard device has the following components:

  • generator – generates energy;
  • inductors - thanks to them, the UHF device creates a magnetic field;
  • electrodes – conduct electric current;
  • emitters.

UHF - indications and contraindications

This manipulation has a wide range of applications. At the same time, the UHF procedure has a considerable list of contraindications. Before performing it, you need to weigh all the positive and negative features. Only a doctor can do this accurately. Self-medication is dangerous! Even if the procedures are performed at home, they must be carried out under the supervision of a doctor.

UHF therapy - indications


When prescribing this therapy, the doctor takes into account the following factors:

  • patient's age;
  • intensity of disease manifestation;
  • concomitant diseases;
  • presence of contraindications to the procedure.

UHF therapy is used to combat inflammation that is in the active stage. During this period, an infiltrate is formed in the body due to the accumulation of lymph and blood cells. UHF therapy promotes its resorption. The amount of calcium ions increases in the problem area. As a result, connective tissue forms around the lesion: it serves as a barrier to prevent the spread of infection. However, this method of physiotherapy can only be used in cases where pus drains from the area affected by inflammation.

UHF indications for implementation are as follows:

  1. ENT diseases(, frontal sinusitis, otitis media, sinusitis, and so on) – the procedure inhibits the vital activity of pathogenic microorganisms. At the same time, such physiotherapy strengthens the immune system and has an analgesic effect. In addition, UHF accelerates the healing process of affected tissues and minimizes the likelihood of complications.
  2. Gastrointestinal pathologies(pancreatitis, ulcers, enteritis, viral hepatitis) – the procedure reduces pain, has an anti-inflammatory effect, and accelerates tissue healing. In addition, UHF improves intestinal motility.
  3. Disorders in the nervous system(plaxitis, neuritis, encephalitis, migraine, sciatica) – thanks to the acceleration of blood circulation, tissues are restored faster. At the same time, muscle spasms are reduced.
  4. Eye diseases(, uveitis, glaucoma, and so on) - this procedure reduces allergies and has an anti-inflammatory effect. Also, under its influence, phagocytosis increases, due to which damaged tissues are restored faster.
  5. Diseases of the cardiovascular system(hypertension, cerebrovascular accident, varicose veins) – after UHF, tissue swelling decreases, muscle tone decreases and, as a result, blood pressure normalizes.
  6. Skin diseases(acne, eczema, psoriasis, phlegmon, herpes) - this procedure strengthens the body’s defense system, accelerates the process of epithelization and has a desensitizing effect.
  7. Dental problems(, gingivitis, periodontitis, trauma) – UHF increases blood circulation in the gums and reduces pain. In addition, this procedure inhibits the viability of pathogenic bacteria.
  8. Pathologies of the musculoskeletal system(dislocations, fractures, bruises, radiculitis, and so on) - during this physiotherapy, the tissues are heated, due to which the blood vessels dilate and, as a result, blood circulation increases. This improves cell nutrition and accelerates their regeneration.
  9. Rehabilitation in the postoperative period– the procedure reduces the risk of tissue infection and complications. In addition, it accelerates the regeneration process, relieves pain and strengthens the body's defenses.

UHF – contraindications

In some cases, this procedure cannot be carried out. UHF treatment is prohibited under the following circumstances:

  • pregnancy;
  • blood clotting disorder;
  • the presence of malignant neoplasms;
  • stage 3 hypertension;
  • fever;
  • presence of a built-in pacemaker;
  • angina pectoris;
  • myocardial infarction;
  • severe blockage of veins.

Conducting UHF therapy

One of the features of this procedure is that it is performed on wooden furniture. During its implementation, the patient either sits or lies (it all depends on which part of the body needs rehabilitation). Since the device works through clothing, it is not necessary to undress. UHF can be performed in the following ways:

  1. Longitudinal– during the procedure, electrodes are applied only to the affected area. With this method of exposure, the electromagnetic field penetrates shallowly, so this procedure is more often used to combat superficial diseases. The optimal distance between the body and the electrode is up to 1 cm.
  2. Transverse– this type of physiotherapy involves a bilateral effect (one plate is applied to the affected area of ​​the body, and the second is applied to the opposite side). With this arrangement, an extensive electromagnetic field is formed. The optimal distance between the patient’s body and the electrode is less than 2 cm.

The UHF treatment procedure is performed as follows:

  1. The specialist selects the optimal shape of electrodes for the patient.
  2. Installs them in special holders.
  3. He wipes the plates with an alcohol-containing solution and applies them to the patient’s problem area.
  4. After installing the electrodes, electricity of a certain power is supplied. The value of this indicator is set using a special regulator.

UHF – range:

  1. Thermal dose– its power varies from 100 to 150 W. During this procedure, you feel warm. This therapy has a provocative purpose.
  2. Oligothermic dosage– power fluctuates between 40-100 W. The patient experiences barely perceptible warmth. This UHF at home improves blood circulation and normalizes metabolism.
  3. Athermic dose– its power varies between 15-40 W. The procedure has an anti-inflammatory effect.

This therapy is prescribed for both adults and children. If the procedure is prescribed for children, the following principles are followed when performing it:

  1. The child must be at least 5 days old.
  2. For children under 7 years old, the recommended power is 30 W, and for school age children – 40 W.
  3. To protect the child from burns, a bandage pad is placed between the electrodes and the baby’s body.

UHF for sinusitis


The procedure is often performed daily. Its duration is up to 15 minutes. The treatment course for adults consists of 15 sessions, and for children – 12 procedures. UHF of the nose provides exposure to heat of varying power:

  • with a purulent process - with a cold stream;
  • in the non-purulent period - weak heat;
  • if the patient has a chronic lesion, the power is increased.

UHF for bronchitis


Under the influence of heat flow, the outflow of blood and lymph increases. As a result, inflammation is reduced and tissues are restored faster. UHF of the chest for bronchitis is recommended to be performed 1-2 times a day. The procedure can last 20 minutes. The duration of therapy directly depends on the intensity with which the disease occurs. More often 6-10 procedures are prescribed.

UHF for otitis media

The procedure gives good results. The UHF algorithm is the same as for the treatment of other diseases. Magnetic fields of varying intensities can be used:

  • weak – will reduce inflammation;
  • medium – will improve metabolic processes;
  • strong - will provide a provocative effect.

UHF tooth


Hardware physiotherapeutic methods are used in medicine to treat a wide variety of diseases.

Among the most effective and common methods is physiotherapy with a UHF device.

How does UHF stand for? It's simple - this is ultra-high frequency (therapy). It can be compared to a kind of heating that penetrates deeply into organs and tissues. In this case, electromagnetic oscillations have a wave frequency from 30 to 300 MHz, and the wavelength ranges from 1 to 10 m.

Mechanism of action

During the UHF procedure, the device produces rays that affect the human body in the following way. The magnetic field creates a thermal effect. Under its influence, biophysical and biochemical reactions occur in cells.

Biophysical changes include the process of increasing vascular permeability (in practice, this reduces swelling and improves trophism - tissue nutrition). At the same time, detoxification of the body occurs.

The biochemical process is an acidification of the environment, which stimulates the growth of leukocytes and strengthens the body's defenses. Thus, a kind of barrier arises around the local focus of inflammation, which separates the pathological process from healthy cells.

During a purulent inflammatory process, such a barrier is especially important.

Benefits and harms

Having studied the mechanism of action of magnetic vibrations on humans, scientists noted the positive effect of currents on the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

Among the most important beneficial effects:

  • stimulation of blood circulation;
  • acceleration of lymph flow;
  • stabilization of cell membranes;
  • restoration of cellular respiration;
  • increased capillary permeability;
  • stimulation of immune defense.

However, if you neglect the basic rules of the procedures, unpleasant consequences will arise. For example, In case of inflammation, do not heat the damaged area - this will lead to the proliferation of pathogenic cells. In addition, electromagnetic currents interfere with the functioning of the pacemaker.

Indications

The beneficial properties of this therapeutic technique are used in medicine in the following situations:

  • for inflammatory and purulent-inflammatory processes of the skin, musculoskeletal system, ENT organs, lungs;
  • inflammatory gynecological diseases;
  • diseases of the nervous system (peripheral);
  • gastrointestinal diseases.

From the above indications for the use of the method, it becomes clear what UHF is in medicine.

Contraindications

Absolute contraindications to UHF therapy:

Relative contraindications include benign tumors, hyperthyroidism, metal objects no more than 2 cm (dentures).

Side effects

In addition to positive effects, side reactions may also occur. The most dangerous are burns.

It is forbidden to carry out the procedure before operations, as this increases the risk of bleeding. UHF cannot be performed immediately after surgery - there is a risk of developing adhesive disease.

Excessive use in the treatment of pneumonia leads to pneumosclerosis. For ENT pathologies, the bilateral use of UHF therapy affects the respiratory and vasomotor centers.

If safety precautions are violated, you may receive an electric shock.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure technique is simple. As a rule, it is carried out in a medical institution, but thanks to the advent of portable UHF devices, similar procedures are now practiced at home (but only on the recommendation or prescription of a doctor).

The patient takes a comfortable position depending on the location of the process: lies down on a wooden couch or sits on a wooden chair. Then the specialist selects the appropriate size electrodes.

With the transverse method the plates are opposite each other. One plate is placed over the diseased area, the other on the opposite side. This way all tissues are warmed up. The gap between the plates is more than 2 cm.

With the longitudinal method electrodes are placed only over the damaged area. Electromagnetic waves travel shallowly into tissue. The air gap is less than 1 cm.

After this, the required force of influence is selected. The number of procedures and their duration are recommended by the doctor, taking into account the indications and contraindications for UHF therapy.

Functional parts of the UHF device:

  • generator;
  • electrodes in the form of plates;
  • inductors;
  • wave emitters.

UHF physiotherapy devices are divided into 2 types: portable (portable) and stationary. Portable devices are “UHF-66” and “UHF-30”, and stationary devices are “Ekran-2” and “Ekran-1”. The UHF-66 device has a rated output power of 80W and automatic frequency adjustment.

In order to improve individual power selection (for patient irradiation with UHF fields), the output power is adjusted proportionally between 3 steps. The device comes with an EVT-1 eddy current applicator.

When using UHF devices, observe safety precautions: use shielded cabinets. Before starting the procedure, the operator checks the integrity of the wires and makes sure that they do not touch each other.

The patient is placed at a safe distance from ungrounded and metal objects.

Conclusion

UHF therapy is a physiotherapeutic method of treatment with a very high frequency electromagnetic field. It is used in the treatment of a wide range of diseases.

Like any other medical procedure, UHF therapy has a number of contraindications and side effects. However, for many diseases, the use of this method of physiotherapy significantly improves the patient's health and well-being.

The first therapeutic effect of a pulsed electric field was recorded in Germany in the 30s of the 20th century. To understand UHF therapy - what it is, deciphering this term will help: ultra-high-frequency therapy. The use of specialized equipment during physiotherapeutic methods of influencing the patient’s body is aimed at creating 2 types of electric current (conduction and displacement).

The result of such manipulations is an increase in the permeability of the vascular walls and the flow of cells of the reticuloendothelial system to the inflammatory focus. The thermal effect of ultra-high-frequency therapy is manifested due to the characteristics of body tissues that resist the penetration of electric current. The procedure during which a device for UHF therapy is used is called EVT therapy (stands for eddy current electrode).

Mechanism of action

The main element of the device for UHF therapy is an ultra-high-frequency generator that reproduces ultra-high-frequency waves. Both stationary and portable equipment are used to carry out physical procedures. The power of exposure is adjusted according to the patient’s thermal sensations (indication occurs by the intensity of the glow of a neon lamp placed in the UHF field and the deflection of the milliammeter arrow).

Benefits and harms

Knowing the principle of action and understanding UHF therapy - what it is, we can conclude that treatment methods using UHF have a beneficial effect on the human body. Ultra-high frequency current can influence processes occurring in nerve tissues, bones, tendons and joints. The effectiveness of using a field with a high frequency of electromagnetic waves is used to treat acute inflammatory diseases, neuroses, metabolic disorders, and problems with the spine.

The effect of such a physiotherapeutic procedure may be exactly the opposite of what was expected if you do not adhere to the basic rules of its implementation. Too high a temperature between the capacitor plates can cause skin burns. A danger to the patient's health during UHF is intense heating of the inflamed area, due to the fact that the proliferation of pathogenic cells increases under the influence of heat. The feeling of discomfort during such a procedure should be a reason for the physiotherapist to reduce the frequency of oscillations of electromagnetic waves.

Indications

A referral for the procedure must be written by a qualified doctor who is familiar with the patient’s medical history and knows the patient’s body’s reactions to irritants. UHF physiotherapy is carried out as part of a course of treatment for the following problems:

  • inflammatory diseases;
  • injuries of spinal and peripheral nerves;
  • radiculitis;
  • eye diseases;
  • polio;
  • thrombophlebitis;
  • diseases of the digestive and genitourinary systems;
  • ENT diseases;
  • skin diseases;
  • exacerbation of inflammatory processes in bone tissue (in dentistry).

Contraindications

Conducting UHF therapy can be dangerous for the body of patients who have pacemakers, implants and other foreign metal objects. In addition, doctors do not prescribe UHF in the following cases:

  • diagnosed blood diseases, thyrotoxicosis;
  • there are neoplasms;
  • during a feverish state;
  • the patient suffers from cardiovascular failure;
  • during pregnancy;
  • medical history includes uterine fibroids, mastopathy, orchiepididymitis;
  • before surgery;
  • low sensitivity to the effects of electromagnetic waves.

Side effects

  • increase in temperature during therapy or immediately after it;
  • deterioration of well-being;
  • skin burn;
  • internal bleeding.

Mechanism of action

Dose (intensity of heat sensation during UHF therapy)

Output power for portable devices, W

Output power for stationary devices, W

Improving cell nutrition

Normalization of metabolism

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Side effects

Possible complications

It is always worth remembering the negative features of any treatment method. UHF therapy can cause adverse reactions from various organs.

Most likely unwanted effects:

  • Formation of a burn on the skin when using incorrect insulation on a metal plate or when using a wet pad.
  • Electric shock to a person when touching exposed electrical wires of a switched-on device. Modern devices have good electrical insulation to reduce the risk of this phenomenon to a minimum.
  • Risk of blood loss when using the technique before surgery or puncture of cavities. UHF therapy should not be used on the eve of such operations.
  • Impact on the vasomotor and respiratory centers with bilateral use of therapy during the treatment of ENT diseases.
  • Pneumosclerosis is the formation of connective tissue in the lungs. A complication can result from excessive use of UHF during the treatment of pneumonia.
  • Adhesive disease - in the case of using therapy after surgical operations on body cavities.
  • Pacemaker malfunction. This complication can be excluded by properly collecting the patient’s medical history.

From the above we can conclude that the risk of complications increases if restrictions are not observed. Correct use of the method allows you to avoid adverse reactions with almost one hundred percent probability.

PHYSIOTHERAPY TREATMENT

Before starting UHF therapy, the specialist selects the size and shape of the plates depending on the location of the area that needs to be treated. Electrode holders are treated with an alcohol-containing solution and brought to the patient. The furniture on which the patient is placed must be wooden.

For sinusitis

Acute and chronic forms of sinusitis and sinusitis respond well to high-frequency waves. UHF for sinusitis is the final stage of the treatment course and is carried out for 10-15 days (depending on the depth of the location of purulent formations in the maxillary sinus). The duration of one procedure is from 10 to 15 minutes. The positive effect of UHF therapy is achieved by reducing swelling under the influence of diadynamic current.

For bronchitis

Treatment of diseases of the bronchopulmonary system using UHF aims to strengthen the walls of the alveoli and stop inflammatory processes. The procedure involves placing the UHF device plates on the chest parallel to the patient’s body (as in the photo). The distance between the electrodes is no less than the diameter of the plate, selected according to the size of the patient’s lungs. A UHF course for bronchitis lasts from 6 to 12 sessions twice a day, lasting from 5 to 20 minutes.

For otitis media

The UHF procedure for otitis should be carried out under the supervision of a physician, due to the fact that the electromagnetic field can provoke the production of fluid in the middle ear cavity. To monitor the body's response to UHF exposure, the course of physiotherapy at the initial stage is no more than 6 procedures of 5 minutes each.

For a complete and most effective treatment of a wide variety of pathological processes affecting the human body, an integrated approach is required. One of the ways to combat diseases is physiotherapy, which includes several separate techniques.

One of the most common and effective methods in physiotherapy is UHF therapy. Many doctors resort to this method of fighting diseases.

What is UHF

The abbreviation UHF stands for ultra-high frequency therapy. This is one of the methods of physiotherapeutic influence on humans in order to combat diseases.

The physiotherapy procedure involves the use of ultra-high frequency electromagnetic fields that freely penetrate through solid matter, affecting the tissues of the body.

If we ignore complex terminology, the technique is based on thermal action.

Due to the influence of the electromagnetic field that the equipment emits, not only tissues are affected, but even internal organs.

The main advantage of the UHF procedure is its complete painlessness. Moreover, the use of electromagnetic waves is appropriate on any part of the body and even with pathologies such as fresh fractures or active inflammation, no matter how deep they are.

To understand the full effectiveness of UHF treatment, it is necessary to understand the mechanism of action of this type of physiotherapy on the body.

To begin with, it is worth saying that doctors distinguish two main effects of the mechanism of action:

  1. Thermal - in this case, heat is produced due to the high frequency of electromagnetic oscillations. Internal tissues of various types are heated (soft, cartilaginous and bone, mucous membranes, etc.), organs, even blood vessels are affected. The therapeutic effect consists of converting particles of the electromagnetic field into thermal energy.
  2. Oscillatory – the mechanism of physiotherapy involves physico-chemical as well as molecular changes. All formations are biological in nature, the impact occurs at the cellular level.

Initially, ultra-high-frequency exposure was determined to be negative. People exposed to radiation said they felt worse and got sick more often. Subsequently, it was discovered that high-frequency waves at the right intensity have a therapeutic effect. The method became widespread in the mid-twentieth century in Germany. Today, UHF therapy involves working with different frequencies: low power - up to 30 W and high power - over 150 W.

The best results are obtained by therapy using pulsed UHF exposure. The duration of exposure to one pulse is usually from 2 to 8 seconds. Under the influence of electric current, tissues heat up, blood supply improves, and capillary permeability increases. UHF treatment is suitable during the rehabilitation period, when the body does not have enough of its own strength to recover and requires additional stimulation. UHF is most effective in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Physiotherapy based on ultra-high-frequency effects helps get rid of chronic rhinitis, bronchitis, and pneumonia.

Mechanism of action of UHF

The method is based on the effect of an electromagnetic field, which absorbs heat from damaged tissues. During the heating process, blood supply and lymph flow increase. This helps relieve inflammation and restore diseased tissues.

The dosage of UHF waves is determined based on the patient’s condition and his subjective feelings. In the process of UHF exposure, physical and chemical processes in the tissues of the body change. This physiotherapeutic method has a beneficial effect on the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, and bone tissue.

During the procedure, capacitor plates are applied to the patient. Their size varies: small plates are used to treat rhinitis, sinusitis and other diseases. Large plates are often used in spine treatment.

When treating with UHF devices, safety precautions must be observed. If the procedure is violated, burns and electrical damage may occur.

Indications

This method is recommended as an auxiliary component of general therapy. UHF exposure has demonstrated the greatest effectiveness in the fight against diseases accompanied by inflammatory processes. Indications for UHF therapy include:

  • gynecological diseases - adhesions, inflammation of the appendages, candidiasis, etc.;
  • pathologies of the nervous system - neuralgia, cerebrovascular accident, meningitis, encephalitis, insomnia, concussion;
  • cardiovascular disorders - hypertension, Raynaud's disease, atherosclerosis, varicose veins;
  • ENT diseases – bronchitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, sinusitis, bronchial asthma;
  • diseases of the digestive system - gastritis, enteritis, pancreatitis, esophagitis, cholecystitis, viral hepatitis, gastric ulcer;
  • skin diseases - psoriasis, abscess, boils, trophic ulcers, phlegmon, acne;
  • eye diseases – glaucoma, barley, blepharitis;
  • pathologies of the musculoskeletal system - arthritis, radiculitis, dislocations, osteoarthritis, osteochondrosis;
  • dental diseases – gingivitis, periodontitis, alveolitis, ulcerative lesions.

The effectiveness of treatment depends on many factors. When prescribing therapy, not only the patient’s diagnosis is taken into account, but also his age, general condition and the presence of concomitant factors. UHF is one of the few methods that can be used during an acute inflammatory process. UHF therapy is recommended during the rehabilitation period, when there is a high probability of re-infection and the development of complications.

Contraindications

UHF therapy is prohibited during pregnancy, bleeding disorders, the presence of tumors, venous thrombosis, and the presence of a pacemaker. Contraindications to UHF are also:

  • third stage hypertension,
  • fever,
  • ischemic disease,
  • persistent angina.

Procedures are performed with caution for those who have metal implants. The procedures are not recommended for people with low blood pressure, diffuse toxic goiter, or thyroid pathologies.

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