Which of the following is not a biophysical effect of diathermy?

Which of the following is not a biophysical effect of diathermy?

• A. Increased blood flow
• B. Activation of fibroblasts
• C. Increased macrophage activity
• D. Decreased muscle strength

Answer: (D)

Diathermy works by delivering deep heating through electromagnetic energy, which raises tissue temperature and triggers healing-related responses. The heat causes vasodilation, so blood flow increases to the treated area, bringing more oxygen and nutrients needed for repair. It also stimulates fibroblasts, promoting collagen synthesis and tissue remodeling, which supports healing of soft tissues. In addition, heating can enhance macrophage activity, helping with debris removal and the inflammatory cleanup that accompanies the healing process. These are the expected biophysical effects that support recovery. Decreased muscle strength is not a typical biophysical effect of diathermy. While overheating a muscle could temporarily reduce its performance or cause fatigue, reducing strength is not a intended or standard response produced by the modality.

Diathermy works by delivering deep heating through electromagnetic energy, which raises tissue temperature and triggers healing-related responses. The heat causes vasodilation, so blood flow increases to the treated area, bringing more oxygen and nutrients needed for repair. It also stimulates fibroblasts, promoting collagen synthesis and tissue remodeling, which supports healing of soft tissues. In addition, heating can enhance macrophage activity, helping with debris removal and the inflammatory cleanup that accompanies the healing process. These are the expected biophysical effects that support recovery.

Decreased muscle strength is not a typical biophysical effect of diathermy. While overheating a muscle could temporarily reduce its performance or cause fatigue, reducing strength is not a intended or standard response produced by the modality.