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radio frequency or also know as TECAR or electrotherapy

Radio Frequency therapy or otherwise known as TECAR, Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy refers to two types of physical therapy modalities that utilize electrical energy to treat various musculoskeletal conditions and promote healing. These therapies are often used in rehabilitation settings and sports medicine. Here's an overview of each:

     1.  Capacitive Therapy:

  • Capacitive therapy involves the transfer of electrical energy through capacitive electrodes to the patient's body.

 

  • Capacitive electrodes are placed on the skin surface, typically separated by a layer of insulating material, creating a capacitor. The electrical energy generated by the device is transferred across the insulator to the patient's tissues.

 

  • The electrical energy leads to the generation of an electric field in the tissues, causing various physiological effects such as increased blood flow, tissue heating, and stimulation of cellular activity.

 

     2.  Indications:

  • Capacitive therapy is often used for pain management, reduction of muscle spasms, and improvement of circulation. It is commonly employed in the treatment of musculoskeletal conditions, including osteoarthritis and soft tissue injuries.


     3.  Resistive Therapy:

 

  • Resistive therapy involves the transfer of electrical energy through resistive electrodes placed on the patient's skin.
     

  • Resistive electrodes are in direct contact with the skin, allowing the transfer of electrical energy to the underlying tissues. Unlike capacitive therapy, there is no insulating layer between the electrodes and the skin.
     

  • The electrical energy creates resistance within the tissues, leading to heat generation. This thermal effect helps to increase blood flow, relax muscles, and promote tissue healing.
     

  • Resistive therapy is commonly used for pain relief, muscle relaxation, and rehabilitation after injuries. It is often employed in the treatment of conditions such as muscle strains, sprains, and joint stiffness.


Both capacitive and resistive therapy are forms of electrotherapy that leverage the properties of electrical energy to achieve therapeutic effects. The choice between the two modalities depends on the specific goals of treatment and the patient's condition. 

capacitive (CET)

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The energy emitted concentrates in water-rich tissues such as muscles and organic fluids.

resistive (RET)

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The energy emitted concentrates in the hard tissues such as tendons, bone, ligaments and cartilage
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Either the capacitive or resistive handle is placed over the treatment area and the return plate is placed underneath. 
This then forms the circuit to allow the energy to be transmitted and bounced back through the treatment area.
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