What is the therapeutic effect of UHF therapy. Physiotherapy

Initially, ultra-high frequency exposure was defined as negative. People exposed to radiation claimed to feel worse and get sick more often. Subsequently, it was found that high-frequency waves at the right intensity have a therapeutic effect. The method became widespread in the middle of the twentieth century in Germany. Today, UHF therapy provides for work with different frequencies: low power - up to 30 W and large - 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 are heated, 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 additional stimulation is required. UHF gives the highest efficiency in the treatment of respiratory diseases. Physiotherapy based on ultra-high frequency exposure helps to get rid of chronic rhinitis, bronchitis, pneumonia.

The mechanism of action of UHF

The method is based on the influence of an electromagnetic field, in which heat is absorbed by damaged tissues. In the process of heating, there is an increase in blood supply and lymph flow. This helps to 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, 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 the treatment of the spine.

When treating with the use of UHF devices, safety precautions must be observed. If the rules of the procedure are 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 can be called:

  • gynecological diseases - adhesive processes, inflammation of the appendages, candidiasis, etc .;
  • pathologies of the nervous system - neuralgia, cerebrovascular accident, meningitis, encephalitis, insomnia, concussion of the brain;
  • cardiovascular disorders - hypertension, Raynaud's disease, atherosclerosis, varicose veins;
  • ENT diseases - bronchitis, tonsillitis, otitis media, sinusitis, bronchial asthma;
  • diseases digestive system- gastritis, enteritis, pancreatitis, esophagitis, cholecystitis, viral hepatitis, peptic ulcer stomach;
  • skin diseases - psoriasis, abscess, boils, trophic ulcers, phlegmon, acne;
  • eye diseases - glaucoma, barley, blepharitis;
  • pathologies of the musculoskeletal system - arthritis, sciatica, 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 the likelihood of re-infection and the development of complications is high.

Contraindications

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

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

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

UHF therapy or ultrahigh frequency therapy is one of the methods of treatment and prevention of many diseases, which is based on the impact on the human body of a continuous or pulsed electric field. In this case, the wavelength is in the range from 10 to 1 meter, and the oscillation frequency is from 30 to 300 MHz.

During the procedure, the influence on the tissues of the body occurs through capacitor plates, which are connected to a generator of ultra-high-frequency oscillations. At the same time, the part of the body located directly in the zone of influence of the apparatus is thoroughly permeated with the healing energy of the electric field.

Application

In the course of numerous studies, it was found that the procedure has an effect on human body complex and versatile action.

  • noticeable inhibition of the vital activity of pathogenic bacteria;
  • activation of blood circulation, as well as lymph circulation in the focus of the disease;
  • an increase in the concentration of calcium ions in the pathological focus;
  • activation of bile secretion;
  • expansion of capillaries;
  • normalization blood pressure;
  • activation of blood circulation in the kidney area;
  • decreased secretion of bronchial glands;
  • stimulating the formation of a barrier from the connective tissue of the body;
  • action aimed at relieving spasms of smooth muscles of the stomach, gallbladder and intestines.

Thus, UHF therapy is effectively used in the treatment of such pathologies.

  1. Inflammatory processes, both acute and subacute, of teeth, ears, eyes and tonsils.
  2. Inflammatory processes of an acute nature, as well as suppuration in human systems and organs.
  3. Diseases of the inflammatory nature of the female genital organs.
  4. Diseases of the nervous system, as well as injuries. These include sciatica, causalgia, phantom pain, neuralgia, plexitis.
  5. Vascular diseases, for example, thrombophlebitis.
  6. Bedsores, wounds that do not heal for a long time, frostbite.
  7. Bronchial asthma.
  8. Polio.
  9. Vegetative dysfunctions.
  10. Encephalitis.

Contraindications

The procedure is contraindicated in patients with such pathologies:

  • fever;
  • malignant neoplasms;
  • blood diseases and bleeding;
  • purulent processes;
  • aortic aneurysm;
  • adhesive disease;
  • heart failure II and III degree;
  • a condition characterized by low blood pressure - hypotension;
  • myocardial infarction;
  • active phase of pulmonary tuberculosis;
  • the presence of a pacemaker in the area of ​​the device;
  • pregnancy.

Important: with extreme caution, the procedure is carried out for patients with dentures and metal objects in the body.

Mechanism of action

The nature of the propagation of the electric field depends on which capacitor plates are selected, their shape and size, as well as the location on the patient's body.

The final result of the procedure is determined by the dosage of heat used for therapy.

  1. Athermic dosage - no heat is felt. It is used to eliminate foci of inflammation.
  2. Oligothermic dosage - heat is felt to a small extent. Used to normalize metabolic processes.
  3. Thermal dosage - the patient feels heat well. Used to increase inflammation.

Throughout the procedure, the patient is in a comfortable position. The plates are placed on the damaged area of ​​the body. The arrangement of the plates can be longitudinal, transverse or at an angle. The distance between the plates should not exceed their diameter.

In order to achieve the deepest penetration of the electric field and impact on the focus of pathology, located deep in the tissues, the transverse method of attaching the plates to the patient's body is used.

If the pathological process occurs on the surface of the body, the plates of the apparatus can be attached longitudinally.

Note: most often, specialists use the transverse method of fastening capacitor plates.

For the procedure to be as effective as possible, a small air space should remain between the surface of the body and the plate. You can determine the size of the gap, knowing the depth of the location of the lesion.

If the procedure is performed on children or adolescent patients, it is important to correctly determine the power of the effect on the body. At the same time, it is necessary to maintain an air gap, for which special circles are used, made of flannel or felt, with a thickness of one to three centimeters.

Note: UHF therapy can be performed on children from the first days of life.

Procedures, as a rule, are carried out daily, lasting from 8 minutes to a quarter of an hour. The full course consists of 5 to 15 procedures.

Benefits of the procedure

Under the influence of the emerging electric field, a slight movement of ions begins, which leads to the transformation of electrical energy into thermal energy. From a medical point of view, this phenomenon is called the thermal effect.

The heating of tissues is reflected in such processes of the body as:

  • metabolism;
  • circulation;
  • enzyme activity.

The nervous system reacts most strongly to the procedure. Oligothermic dosage of heat, that is, during the procedure, the heat is felt slightly, the nervous system has an exciting effect. While the thermal dosage, when the heat is pronounced, the activity of the central nervous system is inhibited.

Also, this type of therapy affects the blood vessels. Treatment allows you to reduce vascular tone and slightly expand the capillaries. In addition, blood pressure normalizes, blood flow and outflow of venous blood increase.

The therapy contributes to a change in chemical processes: the content of leukocytes and erythrocytes increases in the blood. Thus, it is possible to achieve the rapid formation of a protective barrier in the zone of inflammation. This is especially important when it comes to inflammation, which is purulent in nature.

As a result of the effect on the stomach, gallbladder, intestines and bronchi, an antispastic effect occurs, the motor and secretory functions of the stomach are activated. The activity of the kidneys and the separation of bile are activated.

Many metabolic processes in the body are normalized, in particular, protein and carbohydrate. The process of oxygen supply to the tissues improves, thus, the recovery and oxidative processes are faster.

In general, UHF therapy has a complex effect on the human body, expressed in the expansion of blood vessels, the elimination of inflammatory processes and edema, the destruction of bacteria and the prevention of spasms.

One of effective methods treatment for many diseases is physiotherapy. Such procedures are especially often in demand for inflammation and diseases of the musculoskeletal system. And for several decades, doctors have been using UHF in the treatment. What it is - interests patients who are assigned this physiotherapy. Its meaning is that the tissues and organs of the patient are affected by high-frequency electromagnetic radiation. As a result, blood circulation improves and inflammation decreases. Therefore, for many diseases, UHF is prescribed.

What it is

At home, you can now also carry out such a procedure. But stationary devices and the help of a specialist make it safer. After all, not all patients imagine the technique of conducting procedures with UHF. What it is? Deciphering this abbreviation helps to understand that this is the effect of ultra-high frequency current.

And if used incorrectly, the procedure can be dangerous. It is carried out using a high frequency current generator. Two capacitor plates depart from it, through which the effect is transmitted to the tissues and organs of the patient. In them, under the influence of current, the ions oscillate and a thermal effect is created. Therefore, many patients call this procedure simply warming up. But before you go to the physiotherapy room, you should find out: UHF - what is it? The photo will help to imagine what awaits the patient.

How is the procedure carried out

The patient should sit or lie in a comfortable position. The plates of the apparatus are located at a distance of 1-2 centimeters from his body. This is achieved with cotton fabrics, which must be dry. The gap is needed to prevent burns. In addition, the plates are covered with an insulating material. Depending on the disease or the place of the procedure, their position may be transverse or longitudinal. In some places, for example, on the limbs, the plates are opposite each other, and the patient's body is located between them.

So the impact of ultra-high frequencies will be more effective. This is necessary with a deep location of the focus of inflammation. If the impact is required on areas located close to the surface of the body, the plates are placed longitudinally. In this case, the distance between them should not be less than their diameter. You also need to choose the strength of the current. For example, during inflammation, it should be low so that heat is not felt, and to accelerate tissue regeneration, on the contrary, heat generation should be more pronounced. UHF procedures usually last from 5 to 15 minutes, depending on the disease and the age of the patient. And their number is determined by the doctor, most often 10-15 is enough.

Therapeutic effect of the procedure

For decades, many chronic and convalescent diseases have been treated with UHF. What it is, they know not only those who often suffer from otitis media, bronchitis or suffer from sinusitis. This procedure is used for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal diseases. Under the influence of ultra-high frequencies, the following processes occur in the body:

The number of pathogenic bacteria is reduced;

The number of leukocytes increases and their effect increases;

Improves blood circulation;

Immunity is activated and the protective functions of the body are increased;

Capillaries expand and vascular tone decreases;

Improves metabolism and stimulates the motor function of the intestine;

Spasms of smooth muscles are removed;

Improves the outflow of mucus with sinusitis or bronchitis;

Swelling disappears and inflammation decreases;

Pain sensations are reduced;

The person relaxes and calms down.

When is UHF used?

What it is, many patients know since childhood. This effect is effective in such diseases:

Bronchitis, bronchial asthma;

Otitis, sinusitis, conjunctivitis;

In the complex therapy of colds and viral diseases, tonsillitis, laryngitis or tonsillitis;

Various purulent inflammatory processes;

Vegetovascular dystonia;

Skin diseases: panaritium, furunculosis, festering wounds and trophic ulcers;

With thrombophlebitis, vasospasm, varicose veins and cerebrovascular accident;

Cholecystitis, pancreatitis, intestinal spasms, gastritis and even viral hepatitis;

With diseases of the female genital organs, menopausal syndrome;

Osteochondrosis, radiculitis, myositis, arthritis, neuralgia and myalgia;

Most Patients trauma departments know UHF - what it is. In case of a fracture, sprain or dislocation, the procedure helps to quickly restore tissues and prevent complications.

Contraindications for use

Not everyone can use UHF. Like any other physiotherapy procedures, they are contraindicated in certain diseases:

Oncological neoplasms, mastopathy or myoma;

Tendency to bleeding, blood diseases;

thyrotoxicosis;

Low blood pressure;

Acute myocardial infarction and heart failure;

elevated temperature;

During pregnancy.

In addition, if there are metal implants in the patient's body, for example, crowns or pacemakers, the medical staff should be warned, perhaps this will also become a contraindication to UHF. Therefore, this, like all other physiotherapeutic procedures, should be used only as directed by a doctor.

Features of the use of UHF

The patient during the procedure should be away from metal objects and not touch the switched on device.

It is necessary to correctly set up the device and make sure that the wires do not touch each other or the patient. Indeed, in this case, the resonance will be violated.

When treating children, you need to use the smallest current and correctly dose the procedure time.

It is necessary to accurately dose the impact force. For example, with purulent inflammatory diseases, only a slight warmth should be felt.

You need to carefully study the rules for using at home UHF device. What it is, not all buyers represent, and the consequences of such use may be burns or injury electric shock.

UHF therapy (ultrahigh frequency therapy) is a physiotherapeutic method of treatment in which electromagnetic fields of ultrahigh frequency are used. UHF therapy is a kind of heat treatment that, with the help of special equipment, penetrates into human tissues and organs.

UHF electromagnetic fields contribute to:

  • healing of wounds and fractures;
  • reduction of edema;
  • stimulation of peripheral and central circulation;
  • pain reduction;
  • reduction of inflammatory processes.
In 1929, ultra-high frequency electromagnetic fields were used for the first time in Germany as a treatment method. The invention of UHF therapy was facilitated by complaints from people working at radio stations, who stated that they felt a certain Negative influence from radio waves.

Mechanism of therapeutic action

UHF therapy has the following effects:
  • oscillatory effect, which is characterized by a change biological structure cells at the physicochemical and molecular level;
  • thermal effect, which leads to heating of body tissues by converting ultra-high frequencies of the electromagnetic field into thermal energy.

Device device

The classic UHF therapy apparatus is equipped with the following components:
  • high frequency generator ( device that generates ultra-high frequency energy);
  • electrodes in the form of capacitor plates ( electrical conductor);
  • inductors ( responsible for creating magnetic flux);
  • emitters.
UHF devices are of two types:
  • stationary;
  • portable.
For UHF therapy, the following stationary devices are used:
  • "UHF-300";
  • "Screen-2";
  • "Impulse-2";
  • "Impulse-3".
For UHF therapy, the following portable devices are used:
  • "UHF-30";
  • "UHF-66";
  • "UHF-80-04".


Also popular are devices operating in a pulsed mode.

Among the Russian pulsed UHF therapy devices, the following are distinguished:

  • "Impulse-2";
  • "Impulse-3".
Among foreign devices for UHF therapy, the following are distinguished:
  • "Ultraterm";
  • "K-50";
  • "Megapulse";
  • Megatherm.
In UHF therapy, the following ranges of electromagnetic oscillations are used:
  • 40.68 MHz ( Most of the UHF devices in Russia and the CIS countries operate on this band);
  • 27.12 MHz ( this range is mostly used in western countries).
The frequency of electromagnetic oscillations is of two types:
  • continuous oscillation, in which there is a continuous electromagnetic effect on the affected area;
  • pulsed oscillation, in which a series of pulses is produced, the duration of which is from two to eight milliseconds.

Carrying out the UHF procedure

For UHF therapy, wooden furniture is used. During the procedure, the patient is usually in a sitting or lying position, depending on the localization of the affected area, as well as the general condition of the patient. At the same time, it is not at all necessary to take off your clothes, since UHF exposure can penetrate things and even plaster bandages. After the patient has taken a comfortable position, the capacitor plates are prepared ( type of electrode).

To begin with, the patient is selected optimally sized electrodes in relation to the affected area of ​​the body. Then the plates are attached to the holders and, after wiping with an alcohol-containing solution, they are brought to the sore spot.

There are the following methods for installing electrodes:

  • transverse way;
  • longitudinal way.

Transverse method
This installation method consists in the fact that the electrodes must be located opposite each other. In this case, one plate should be directed to the diseased area of ​​the body, and the other - from the opposite side. Due to this arrangement, electromagnetic fields penetrate the entire body of the patient, while exerting a general effect. The distance between the electrode and the body should not be less than two centimeters.

Longitudinal way
With this method, electrodes are applied only to the affected side. This installation method is used in the treatment of superficial diseases, since the electromagnetic fields in this case do not penetrate deep. The space between the electrode and the body should not exceed more than one centimeter.

UHF therapy electrodes are installed at a certain distance. The closer the plate is to the affected area, the stronger the thermal effect ( in case of incorrect placement, it can lead to the development of burns).

After installing the electrodes, the medical worker sets a certain power of electricity at which the patient receives the required dose of UHF. The power of electromagnetic fields is adjusted using a special regulator, which is located on the generator control panel. Depending on the existing disease and the indications of the doctor, various dosages of the sensation of heat are used for UHF.

Dose of UHF Heat Power Mechanism of action Patient Feelings
Thermal dose 100 to 150 W used for provocative purposes the patient experiences intense heat sensations
Oligothermic dose 40 to 100 W improves cellular nutrition, metabolism and blood circulation characterized by slight thermal sensations
Athermic dose 15 to 40 W produces an anti-inflammatory effect the patient does not feel warm

Depending on the dose of exposure to UHF fields in the human body, the following changes can be observed:
  • increase in phagocytic activity of leukocytes;
  • decrease in exudation secretion of fluid in the tissue during inflammatory processes);
  • activation of fibroblasts ( connective tissue cells in the human body);
  • increase in the permeability of the walls of blood vessels;
  • stimulation in the tissues of metabolic processes.
The advantage of UHF therapy is that its use is possible in acute inflammatory processes and fresh fractures. Usually, these violations are a contraindication to various physiotherapeutic methods of treatment.

As a rule, the duration of the UHF therapy procedure for an adult is from ten to fifteen minutes. On average, the course of treatment includes five to fifteen procedures, which are usually carried out daily or every other day.

Features of UHF for newborns and children:

  • UHF therapy can be applied only a few days after the birth of the child;
  • low thermal dosage is used;
  • devices with low power are used; so children under seven years of age are shown a power of no more than thirty watts, and children of school age - no more than forty watts;
  • for children under five years old, the electrodes are bandaged to the required area, and instead of the air gap between the plate and the skin, a special bandage pad is inserted ( to avoid burns);
  • UHF therapy is used no more than twice a year;
  • it is recommended to perform an average of five to eight treatment procedures ( no more than twelve).
Duration UHF procedures depends on the age of the child.

Indications for UHF procedure

When assigning UHF, the following factors are taken into account:
  • patient's age;
  • the course and stage of the existing disease;
  • the general health of the patient;
  • the presence of concomitant diseases;
  • presence of contraindications for the procedure.
UHF is one of the methods of physiotherapy that can be used for inflammatory diseases that are in the active phase.

During the inflammatory process, an inflammatory infiltrate is formed at the site of the lesion due to the accumulation of blood and lymph cells, which, under exposure to UHF may dissolve. During the procedure, saturation of calcium ions increases in the affected area, which leads to the formation of connective tissue around the inflammatory focus and prevents further spread of the infection. However, it should be noted that this method of treatment is used only in cases where there are conditions for draining purulent contents from the affected area.

UHF is used in the treatment of:

  • diseases of the respiratory system and ENT organs ( ear, throat, nose);
  • diseases of the cardiovascular system;
  • diseases of the digestive system;
  • diseases of the genitourinary system;
  • diseases of the nervous system;
  • diseases of the musculoskeletal system;
  • eye diseases;
  • dental diseases;
  • in the postoperative period.

System name Name of the disease The mechanism of action of UHF
Diseases of the respiratory system and ENT organs In the presence of infectious processes ( e.g. pneumonia, tonsillitis, otitis media) has a depressing effect on the vital activity of microorganisms. It has an analgesic and immuno-strengthening effect. Favorable conditions are created for the healing of affected tissues, and the risk of complications is also reduced.
Diseases of the cardiovascular system
  • hypertension of the first and second stages;
  • obliterating endarteritis;
  • cerebrovascular accident ( such as atherosclerosis).
It has a vasodilating effect, which leads to an improvement in peripheral and central blood circulation. Produces a positive effect on myocardial contractility. By reducing the increased tone of the vascular wall, it helps to lower blood pressure, and also reduces tissue swelling.
Diseases of the digestive system
  • viral hepatitis;
It has a general strengthening effect on the human body. In diseases accompanied by pain, it produces an analgesic effect. It also has an anti-inflammatory effect e.g. cholecystitis, colitis) and accelerates the process of tissue healing ( such as stomach ulcers and duodenum ). With spasm of the stomach, gallbladder, and intestines, it produces an antispasmodic effect ( relaxing effect). Also, after the procedure, intestinal motility and bile secretion improves.
Diseases of the genitourinary system There is a decrease in the inflammatory response, there is a decongestant effect, blood circulation and healing of affected tissues improves.
Skin diseases
  • carbuncles;
  • herpes simplex;
  • phlegmon;
  • trophic ulcers;
  • bedsores;
  • wounds.
In skin diseases, it prevents the process of suppuration of the wound. If the infectious-inflammatory process is in the active phase, this procedure has a bactericidal effect ( inhibits the activity of bacteria). Stimulates the protective system of the skin, which activates the work of such immune cells as lymphocytes, Langerhans cells, mast cells and others. Microcirculation in the affected area also improves, which helps to accelerate the process of epithelization ( recovery) tissues. In the presence of allergic diseases, it has a desensitizing effect on the body ( antiallergic) action.
Diseases of the nervous system
  • Phantom pain;
  • plexitis;
  • inflammation of the sciatic nerve ( sciatica);
  • spinal cord injury;
  • causalgia;
  • brain and spinal cord injuries concussion, concussion, compression of the brain or spinal cord).
It produces an analgesic effect due to inhibition of processes in the central nervous system and also helps to reduce muscle spasm. Also, at the site of exposure, there is an improvement in blood circulation, which leads to an acceleration of the healing processes of the nervous tissue. In diseases accompanied by a violation of the conduction of nerve impulses, it helps to restore them.
Diseases of the musculoskeletal system
  • phagocytes - special cells in the body that destroy pathogenic microorganisms), which accelerates the process of recovery and tissue regeneration.
Dental diseases
  • alveolitis;
  • periodontitis;
  • ulceration of the oral mucosa;
  • burns;
  • injury.
During exposure to an electromagnetic field in the gums, blood circulation improves, growth stops, and the viability of bacteria is also inhibited. Pain is also effectively reduced.
rehabilitation period
  • postoperative wounds;
  • postoperative infiltrates;
  • rehabilitation after injuries;
  • rehabilitation after an illness.
By improving microcirculation and creating collateral vessels, the process of regeneration of affected tissues is accelerated. Significantly reduces the risk of wound infection, as ultra-high frequency electric field has a detrimental effect on pathological microorganisms that can cause suppuration of the postoperative wound. During the rehabilitation period, this procedure helps to increase the body's defenses, and also has an analgesic effect, which speeds up and facilitates the recovery process.

The effectiveness of UHF treatment may depend on the following factors:
  • stage and severity of the disease;
  • range of electromagnetic oscillations;
  • the duration of the procedure;
  • place of impact;
  • usage additional methods treatment;
  • individual sensitivity to the influence of electric current.

Contraindications for UHF

There are absolute and relative contraindications for UHF therapy.

There are the following absolute contraindications:

  • blood clotting disorder;
  • hypertension of the third stage;
  • malignant tumors;
  • feverish conditions;
  • hypotension;
  • the patient has a pacemaker;
  • pregnancy;
  • Bleeding. The use of UHF before surgery increases the risk of bleeding. The electromagnetic field, heating the tissues and causing hyperemia in the affected area, can subsequently lead to bleeding.
  • Scar. One of the therapeutic actions of UHF is aimed at the development of connective tissue, which, for example, during inflammatory processes creates a protective barrier, preventing the spread of infection throughout the body. However, in some cases, when there is a risk of developing unwanted scar tissue ( e.g. after abdominal surgery), UHF is not recommended.
  • Electric shock. Side effect, which can occur in rare cases, if the safety rules are not followed, if the patient comes into contact with the bare parts of the device that are energized.

UHF therapy (or ultra-high frequency) is a type of impact on the body, in which electromagnetic radiation of a very high frequency is used. The effect of UHF is the so-called heat treatment that penetrates tissues and organs. It is necessary to consider his testimony and prohibitions, the main methods of conducting.

The electromagnetic apparatus emits rays that have such an effect on the human body as:

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

The UHF apparatus has the following components:

  • a generator that produces high-frequency radiation that is active in relation to most tissues of the body;
  • electrodes (they have special plates and play the role of 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. Most commonly used:

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

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

Before prescribing such treatment, various factors are taken into account:

  • 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 (during some of them there may be contraindications).

Often UHF is 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 inflammation disappears faster.

It is possible to use the UHF-66 apparatus or another 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. General indications for physiotherapy are as follows:

  • pathology 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;
  • violations of the musculoskeletal system;
  • eye diseases, especially infectious and inflammatory genesis;
  • dental diseases;
  • recovery period after surgery.

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

  1. In pathologies of the respiratory system, high-frequency radiation leads to a 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. With hypertension and other pathologies of the heart and blood vessels, this device improves central and peripheral blood circulation. Significantly increased contractile activity of the heart muscle. Improving vascular tone, in turn, helps to 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 to 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, ulcers and other pathologically altered areas heal. Accordingly, all inflammatory processes in the gastrointestinal tract are easier, and recovery occurs much faster.
  4. UHF treatment is also used for inflammation in the genitourinary system. The blood supply to the affected organs of the body improves, swelling and inflammation decrease.
  5. UHF prevents the development of processes of purulent lesions of the skin and mucous membranes. This is especially true in cases where the inflammatory process is in the acute purulent phase. Due to the pronounced bactericidal effect, the effectiveness of the negative phenomenon is reduced. The protective function of the skin is also stimulated, which is why the inflammatory process passes very quickly.
  6. The ultra-high background of electromagnetic radiation is also used for the treatment of basic nervous pathologies. UHF inhibits the processes in the central nervous system, leading to the occurrence of pain syndromes. Due to a significant improvement in blood circulation processes nervous tissue recovers faster and the recovery period is thus significantly accelerated. As a result, in some clinics, the treatment of sciatica, osteochondrosis, osteoarthritis and other similar pathologies using UHF devices is the main one.
  7. It has been proven that the high frequency of UHF improves metabolic processes in the membranes of the eye. So 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, blood circulation improves.

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

To carry out the procedure, use wooden furniture. Usually the patient sits or lies down, depending on where exactly the affected area of ​​​​the body is located. Some patients think that such an examination is associated with the removal of clothing. This is not true: a person does not have to undress at all. UHF radiation can even penetrate bandages.

The doctor chooses the most convenient and necessary electrodes for the patient (their size is different, depending on the size of the diseased part of the body). The plates are fixed in the holder and wiped with an ethanol solution. After that, they can be brought to the affected area. The electrodes can be installed in transverse and longitudinal arrangement.

With a transverse installation method, they are located opposite each other. One plate is on the affected area, and the second is on the opposite side. The UHF device distributes electromagnetic radiation throughout the body. It is necessary to maintain a minimum distance between the electrode and the human body (no more than 2 cm).

With the longitudinal method of installation, the elements are placed only on the affected area. This use of it is preferable, provided that a small part of the body is damaged. With a longitudinal installation scheme, electromagnetic waves penetrate to insignificant depths. And the closer the electrode-plate is to the skin, the stronger the thermal effect. Do not install the electrode directly on the skin, because in this case a severe burn can be provoked.

The doctor must adjust the device by giving required amount electromagnetic radiation. For this, there is a scale that sets the power in watts. There are 3 types of UHF dosages:

  • athermic (less than 40 W) - it mainly has an anti-inflammatory effect;
  • oligothermal (less than 100 W) - improves cellular metabolism, blood supply to organs and tissues;
  • thermal (over 100 W) - rarely used, because it has some contraindications.

Depending on which dosage is 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 tissues due to a decrease in the intensity of inflammatory processes;
  • fibroblasts are activated (they are responsible for the formation of connective tissues in the body);
  • increases the permeability of capillary walls;
  • metabolic processes are stimulated in all tissues and organs.

The scheme for using UHF treatment, in most cases, is 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.

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 are in 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 with high-frequency waves.
  3. Scars appear from the fact that high-frequency rays stimulate the development of connective tissue. In some cases, for example, after abdominal operations, such treatment is not recommended.
  4. In rare cases, electric shock can also occur. Often this happens if the patient does not follow the safety rules and comes into contact with the bare wires of the devices.

Contraindications

In some cases, there are contraindications for treatment with UHF, in particular, such as:

  1. Severe disorders of blood clotting.
  2. Arterial hypertension stage 3.
  3. Malignant neoplasms.
  4. Fever state.
  5. Built-in pacemaker. In this case, the presence of high-frequency radiation can contribute to its failure and death of the patient.
  6. Acute stage of coronary heart disease, myocardial infarction, persistent or decompensated form of angina pectoris.
  7. Blockage of the veins.

Relative prohibitions on conducting UHF are as follows:

  • the presence of benign neoplasms in the body;
  • increased activity of the thyroid gland;
  • the presence of removable metal dentures.

Gender, age of the patient does not matter. For children, the intensity of exposure and the time of the procedure may decrease.

So, therapy with the use of high-frequency radiation is indicated for a significant number of diseases. In the vast majority of cases, this treatment brings good results. However, when going through all procedures, safety rules must be observed, since high-frequency radiation can be harmful. Sometimes it is completely contraindicated due to the presence of acute and chronic pathological conditions in the body.