SWD
Short Wave Diathermy (SWD) Machines – Deep Thermotherapy for Chronic Conditions
Short wave diathermy (SWD) is an electrotherapy modality that uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy (27.12 MHz) to generate deep tissue heat. It is one of the most powerful thermotherapy tools available in physiotherapy, capable of heating tissues at depths that surface heat modalities cannot reach. At Meddey, we offer continuous and pulsed SWD machines for physiotherapy clinics, orthopaedic rehabilitation units, and sports medicine centres. SWD machines are particularly valuable for managing chronic musculoskeletal conditions where deep tissue heating produces sustained therapeutic benefit.
How Does Short Wave Diathermy Work?
SWD machines generate a high-frequency alternating electromagnetic field that penetrates deeply into biological tissues. The oscillating field causes rotation of polar molecules and movement of ions, producing heat as a secondary effect deep within muscles, joints, and periarticular structures. Continuous SWD produces thermal effects primarily – vasodilation, increased metabolism, and reduced muscle spasm. Pulsed SWD (PSWD) produces predominantly non-thermal effects – cellular activation, reduced oedema, and accelerated tissue repair – without significant temperature rise, making it suitable for acute and subacute conditions.
Types of SWD Machines at Meddey
Continuous SWD: Traditional SWD units for deep thermotherapy in chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Available in 200W and 400W output for small joint and large body segment treatment respectively.
Pulsed SWD (PSWD): Modern pulsed units with adjustable pulse frequency and duty cycle for non-thermal treatment of acute and subacute conditions, oedema, and wound healing.
Combination Units: Machines offering both continuous and pulsed SWD modes for maximum clinical flexibility.
Clinical Indications for SWD
SWD is clinically indicated for osteoarthritis of large joints (hip, knee, shoulder), rheumatoid arthritis in chronic stage, chronic bursitis, muscle spasm and guarding, pelvic inflammatory conditions, sinusitis and otitis media, peripheral vascular disease (pulsed mode), post-fracture rehabilitation, and chronic low back pain with muscle involvement.
Safety and Contraindications
SWD is contraindicated in the presence of metallic implants in the treatment field, cardiac pacemakers, malignancy, pregnancy, over wet dressings, and in areas of impaired circulation or sensation. Equipment must be calibrated regularly. Patients should remove all metal objects from the treatment area.
Why Buy SWD Machines from Meddey?
Meddey supplies SWD machines to physiotherapy clinics and hospitals across India. Our machines comply with safety standards and come with electrode applicators, coil cables, and operating manuals. We provide technical support and calibration guidance for clinic installations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between SWD and infrared therapy? Infrared heats only superficial tissues (skin and subcutaneous fat). SWD penetrates 3–5cm into deep muscles and joint structures. SWD is more appropriate for conditions involving deep joint inflammation and large muscle groups.
How long is a typical SWD treatment session? Continuous SWD sessions typically last 10–20 minutes depending on the condition and output power. Pulsed SWD sessions can be longer (20–30 minutes) due to lower thermal load.