What mechanism explains heat production in short-wave diathermy?

What mechanism explains heat production in short-wave diathermy?

• A. Eddy currents
• B. Infrared conduction
• C. Mechanical vibration
• D. Chemical reaction

Answer: (A)

Heat production in short-wave diathermy comes from eddy currents induced in tissues by the alternating magnetic field produced by the applicator. As the RF field oscillates, circular currents form in conductive tissues. The tissue’s resistance converts part of that electrical energy into heat, producing the warming effect. This is different from infrared conduction (heat transfer from a surface), mechanical vibration (vibrational energy), or chemical reactions (metabolic heat), which are not the primary mechanisms in this modality.

Heat production in short-wave diathermy comes from eddy currents induced in tissues by the alternating magnetic field produced by the applicator. As the RF field oscillates, circular currents form in conductive tissues. The tissue’s resistance converts part of that electrical energy into heat, producing the warming effect. This is different from infrared conduction (heat transfer from a surface), mechanical vibration (vibrational energy), or chemical reactions (metabolic heat), which are not the primary mechanisms in this modality.