Short-wave Diathermy in Patients With Osteoarthritis of the Hand

Due to constant strain the joints of the hands are frequently affected by osteoarthritis (OA). Short-wave diathermy (SWD) is a form of electromagnetic therapy, which causes movement of ions, distortion of molecules, and creation of eddy currents and as a result heat is produced in deep tissue. Its claimed mechanism of action includes inducing an anti-inflammatory response, reducing joint stiffness, stimulating connective tissue repair, and reducing muscle spasm and pain. Since the available studies were performed to study the large weight-bearing joints only, there is a lack in scientific evidence for the efficacy of SWD in hand OA. The aim of this randomized, double blind, placebo-controlled study is to evaluate the effect of SWD on: joint function in patients with hand OA. joint pain in patients with hand OA. grip strength in patients with hand OA. quality of live in patients with hand OA.