Shortwave Therapy

Pulsed shortwave therapy (PSWT) involves a device that delivers an electric and magnetic field in short pulses with a time gap in between. Most of the published literature supports the therapeutic effects of the magnetic field. The evidence supports an effect similar to ultrasound therapy: an increase in activity at the cell membrane, which results in an up-regulated state in which materials are transported at a high rate in and out of the cell.

A cell's contents determine its health, and the normal flow of ions is determined by a difference in voltage called the potential difference. During inflammation or other trauma, this potential is disturbed and flow is disrupted, damaging the cell and limiting tissue repair.

The literature supports the claim that PSWT helps restore normal values and improve cell function by facilitating the normal transport of ions across the membrane. The process is thought to be selective: only damaged cells respond to the low levels of energy involved.

Each electrotherapy modality has its own pros, cons and specific uses. Ultrasound is effective in denser tissues with high concentrations of collagen, such as ligaments and tendons, while pulsed shortwave, because of its mode of action, is more useful in cells where ionic concentrations are vital to repair, namely muscle and nerve cells.

Observed effects include an increase in healing structures such as white blood cells and fibroblasts around damaged cells, and a distinct reduction in inflammation. Physiotherapists use pulsed shortwave to treat muscle damage, particularly to reduce inflammation and promote the repair of strains and similar muscular problems. It can also be used to treat fractures and nerve damage.

The electric and magnetic field used in this treatment makes it unsuitable for people with pacemakers and other implants, and for pregnant women because of potential effects on the fetus. Malignant tissue can proliferate faster under this therapy, so it is not suitable for cancer patients.