Long wave is much better and superior modality for relieving pain as compared to shortwave and ultrasonic.
Here are some comparisons which make long wave better than other modalities.
- 1. long wave works at 1 Mhz whereas short wave works at 27.12Mhz. since long wave works al less frequency there will be minimum energy loss.
- 2. In shortwave diathermy heat is produced due to molecular friction that's why tissue destruction is seen which is not the case in long wave diathermy
- 3. Long wave diathermy produces a maximum output of 25 watts whereas shortwave produces output in the range of 250-1000 watts.
- 4. Long wave can be used in the patients with the metallic implant.
- 5. Unlike shortwave long wave do not produce any interference with other equipment nearby.
- 6. Heat produced by long wave remains for 45 minutes.
- 7. Long wave has a deeper penetration of 40 mm.
- 8. In this most of Ihe energy remains in high density tissues like ligaments and tendons.
- 9. long wave is highly portable modality weighing around 6-7kgs. Only.