Laurie's Blogs.

From that blog a couple of weeks ago – the review of the paper about rehab following femoral head and neck excision – there was a mention of Tecar therapy.  I thought, geez, I’m out of the loop, I need to look that up!  So I did!  Guess what, it is Radiofrequency diathermy.  Is that the same as short-wave diathermy… well, I found a paper from 1989 that said ‘yes’, it could be very similar (or maybe a 'cousin' to those old units of the past).  So, it turns out that what is old becomes new again.  When I was taking my physio degree several decades ago, ‘short-wave diathermy’ was on its way out.  We had to learn it, just in case we were in an old hospital unit that still had one, but we were assured that, “nobody is using it anymore!”  Funny, because here we are 30+ years later.  Heard of “Indiba”?  It’s radiofrequency diathermy.  Basically, deep heating of tissues.  Keep on reading to learn more!

TECAR Therapy (Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive) is a form of electrotherapy that uses electromagnetic energy to stimulate the body's natural repair processes. It’s also known as diathermy or radiofrequency therapy. This treatment modality has gained popularity in both human and veterinary medicine due to its purported benefits in reducing pain, inflammation, and accelerating tissue healing.

What is TECAR Therapy?

TECAR therapy involves the application of high-frequency electromagnetic waves (typically in the range of 300 kHz to 1 MHz) to targeted tissues. This energy can be delivered in two modes:

1.  Capacitive Mode (CET - Capacitive Energy Transfer): Targets tissues with high water content, such as muscles. It uses a movable electrode covered with an insulating material that creates a capacitive field, heating tissues superficially.

2.  Resistive Mode (RET - Resistive Energy Transfer): Targets tissues with lower water content, such as bones, tendons, and ligaments. This mode uses an uninsulated electrode to create a resistive field, allowing deeper penetration of the energy into the body.

By producing heat through these electromagnetic waves, TECAR therapy aims to promote blood circulation, improve lymphatic drainage, and stimulate cellular repair processes. This, in turn, is believed to reduce pain and inflammation, promote healing, and enhance tissue regeneration.

Requirements for Application

To apply TECAR therapy, the following are required:

1.  TECAR Device: The device must be capable of generating and delivering electromagnetic waves within the desired frequency range. It typically comes with both capacitive and resistive electrodes.

2.  Trained Practitioner: The application of TECAR therapy requires a trained healthcare provider or therapist who understands the principles of electrotherapy, anatomy, and the specific conditions being treated.

3.  Conductive Gel or Cream: A conductive gel or cream is often used to improve the connection between the electrode and the skin and to facilitate the transfer of electromagnetic energy.

4.  Clearance for Use: The patient or animal should be cleared for use of TECAR therapy, ensuring that there are no contraindications, such as implanted electronic devices (e.g., pacemakers), infections, or malignancies.

Who Can Provide TECAR Therapy?

TECAR therapy can be provided by (this info would seem to be UK based... since I have yet to hear of TECAR therapy being widely used in North America):

1.  Human Medicine: Physiotherapists, sports medicine specialists, chiropractors, and other licensed healthcare professionals often use TECAR therapy to manage musculoskeletal conditions in humans.

2.  Veterinary Medicine: Veterinary physiotherapists, rehabilitation therapists, and veterinarians who are trained in animal rehabilitation and electrotherapy techniques may apply TECAR therapy to animals.

Research and Validation

There is a growing body of research on TECAR therapy, although much of it is still emerging, and findings are mixed regarding its effectiveness:

• Human Studies: In humans, TECAR therapy has been researched for its potential benefits in treating musculoskeletal conditions like osteoarthritis, tendinopathy, muscle strains, and joint injuries. Some studies have reported positive outcomes, such as reduced pain, improved function, and faster recovery times. However, many studies are small-scale, with varying methodologies, and more large-scale, high-quality research is needed to conclusively determine its efficacy.
• Animal Studies: Research on TECAR therapy in veterinary medicine is more limited. However, some studies and case reports suggest that it may help reduce pain and inflammation and support the healing process in dogs and horses. Similar to human studies, more controlled trials are needed to validate these findings.

History and Availability

TECAR therapy has been available for approximately 20-30 years. It was initially developed and used in human medicine, especially in Europe, for sports medicine and physical rehabilitation. Over time, its use has expanded into veterinary applications, where it is becoming more common in animal rehabilitation and sports medicine for performance animals.

Use in Humans and Animals

TECAR therapy is used in both human and veterinary medicine:

• Humans: Widely used in physiotherapy, sports medicine, orthopedics, and rehabilitation settings. It is commonly applied to treat conditions like muscle injuries, tendinopathies, joint pain, and postoperative recovery.
• Animals: Increasingly used in veterinary rehabilitation, especially for dogs and horses. It's applied for musculoskeletal injuries, arthritis, pain management, and post-surgical rehabilitation.

TECAR therapy seems to be a  promising treatment modality that offers potential benefits for pain relief, inflammation reduction, and accelerated tissue healing. However, its effectiveness is still being validated through research, particularly in veterinary medicine. It's a therapy that requires specific equipment, proper training, and a clear understanding of its indications and contraindications. As more evidence becomes available, its applications and acceptance in both human and animal healthcare are likely to expand.

Want to know more?  Keep on reading!

What are "High-Frequency Electromagnetic Waves"?

High-frequency electromagnetic waves are forms of energy that travel through space at the speed of light. These waves are characterized by their frequency, which is the number of oscillations or cycles they complete per second, measured in Hertz (Hz). In the context of TECAR therapy, the waves typically range from 300 kHz (kilohertz) to 1 MHz (megahertz).

1.  Electromagnetic Spectrum Position: These frequencies are part of the radiofrequency (RF) range of the electromagnetic spectrum. This range is positioned below microwaves and infrared light and above extremely low-frequency (ELF) waves used for purposes like power line transmission.

2.  How They Work in TECAR Therapy: In TECAR therapy, high-frequency electromagnetic waves are used to generate heat within the body's tissues. The waves cause the charged particles (ions) in the body to move rapidly, producing friction and heat. This heat is therapeutic and is believed to promote several physiological benefits, such as increased blood flow, enhanced lymphatic drainage, reduced pain, and accelerated tissue repair.

How are High-Frequency Electromagnetic Waves Generated?

To generate high-frequency electromagnetic waves for TECAR therapy, specialized equipment is used:

1.  Oscillator Circuit: The TECAR device contains an oscillator circuit, a fundamental electronic component that creates alternating current (AC) at the desired frequency. The oscillator generates an electrical signal by rapidly switching the current on and off, producing an oscillating electromagnetic field at a set frequency (e.g., 300 kHz to 1 MHz).

2.  Amplifier: The electrical signal from the oscillator is then passed through an amplifier that increases the strength (amplitude) of the signal. This ensures that the generated electromagnetic waves have enough energy to penetrate the body tissues effectively.

3.  Electrodes (Capacitive and Resistive):

• Capacitive Electrode (CET): This electrode is coated with an insulating material that creates a capacitive field when applied to the skin. It selectively targets tissues with high water content, such as muscles. The insulation layer ensures that the energy is focused on the superficial tissues.
• Resistive Electrode (RET): This electrode is uninsulated and allows direct contact with the skin, creating a resistive field that can penetrate deeper into tissues with lower water content, such as tendons, ligaments, and bones.

4. Delivery to the Body: When the TECAR device is applied to the patient's skin, the high-frequency electromagnetic waves pass through the body tissues. The energy absorption is dependent on the tissue's impedance (resistance to the current flow). This process generates heat, which is controlled and modulated by the device settings and the therapist’s expertise.

Is TECAR Therapy Painful in Its Application?

TECAR therapy is generally not painful. Most patients or animals find the therapy to be comfortable, and many describe the sensation as a gentle, warming feeling.

However, several factors influence the sensation experienced during TECAR therapy:

1.  Therapist Technique and Equipment Settings: The therapist adjusts the intensity and mode (capacitive or resistive) of the device based on the treatment goals, patient’s tolerance, and specific condition. When applied correctly, the sensation should be mild and pleasant. The depth and intensity of the heat can be modulated to ensure comfort.

2.  Patient Sensitivity: Some individuals or animals may have a heightened sensitivity to heat or may be more sensitive due to certain conditions like nerve damage or skin lesions. In such cases, the intensity is adjusted to prevent discomfort.

3.  Targeted Tissue Type: The amount of heat generated depends on the tissue type being targeted. For example, heating deeper tissues (like tendons or joints) may require higher energy levels, which can sometimes cause a mild discomfort if not monitored properly.

4.  Contraindications: If applied incorrectly or in the presence of contraindications (such as over metal implants, pacemakers, or certain skin conditions), there could be a risk of burns or discomfort. This is why it is critical that a trained professional conducts the therapy.

Key Takeaway

TECAR therapy is designed to be a non-invasive, pain-free treatment that uses high-frequency electromagnetic waves to promote healing. The therapy is generally well-tolerated when applied by a trained professional, and the intensity can be adjusted to ensure the patient or animal’s comfort throughout the session.

MY takeaway?
I'd love to try one for free and see what I actually think about it!  Anyone have any leads for something like that??

Cheers...
Laurie