SPORT MEDICINE
Use of an Evolution in Tecartherapy for Muscle Improvement and Treatment of Sports Injuries
Abstract: Radiofrequency assisted medical devices have evolved dramatically in the last two decades, such that a simple set of fairly basic tools has now become an extremely sophisticated option. Most importantly, a physician’s understanding of these devices can maximize treatment results. Diathermy, meaning “through heat,” consists in the application of short-wave electromagnetic energy. The factor that determines whether a diathermy machine will increase body temperature is the amount of energy absorbed by the tissue. The development of this device allows selecting the frequency to apply between 0.8 1 and 1.2 MHz; the application of high energy power, through several channels and increasing the treatment area, allows taking the radiofrequency to another level in rehabilitation sports medicine. RF is applied to the target area by a handpiece that delivers energy, while a grounding pad is placed elsewhere on the body for the energy to pass through. The entry of RF into the body at the site of contact with the active electrode leads to heating a volume of tissue. This ability to heat a volume of tissue in a non-invasive way produces the immediate contraction of collagen, and the delayed synthesis of collagen, by thermal induction fibroblasts, and the production of epithelial, vascular growth factors. RF has a firm, safe and increasingly popular place in the therapeutic arsenal of sports medicine.
Evaluation of the Effects of Tecar Therapy on Acute Symptoms of Athletes Following Lateral Ankle Ligament Sprain
Abstract: Background and Objectives: Tecar therapy as a modality has been considered due to its reported effects on reducing pain and swelling and finally increasing range of motion and improving function. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of tecar therapy on acute symptoms of athletes following lateral ankle ligament sprain in the treatment and control groups between pretreatment periods, after 6 sessions, and after 12 sessions of treatment. Methods: In this study, 23 patients in each group including athletes with an acute lateral ankle ligament sprain in the acute stage in Tehran. The participant of this study were divided into 2 groups of control with normal treatment and the second group with normal treatment + tecar treatment. Participants were homogenized in terms of age, height, weight, and level of exercise. To evaluate the pain intensity of patients in the two groups and to measure the swelling of the ankle joint, a tape measure (mm) was used. A goniometer was used to measure the degree of ankle motions. The Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) questionnaire was also used to collect data. Results: Statistical analyzes showed that the mean numerical visual criterion of pain in both groups was significantly lower after 6 and 12 sessions of treatment (P<0.001). The results of the analysis of variance showed that the mean swelling in the treatment group and in the control group after 6 and 12 sessions of treatment (P<0.001) was significantly lower than the mean swelling before treatment. Also, the mean swelling after 12 sessions of treatment was significantly lower than after 6 sessions of treatment (P<0.001). Regarding daily life activities and the percentage of athlete satisfaction in performing the activity, the test results showed that the athlete’s scores after 6 and 12 sessions of treatment (P<0.001) were significantly higher than before treatment. Also, their scores after 12 sessions of treatment were significantly higher than 6 sessions (P<0.001). The performance scores in both groups after 6 and 12 sessions of treatment (P<0.001) were significantly higher than performance scores before treatment. Also, the performance scores after 12 sessions of treatment were significantly higher than 6 sessions of treatment (P<0.001). Conclusion: The results of the present study showed that tecar therapy in patients with lateral ligament sprain of the ankle joint improves the condition of symptoms after an injury, including swelling, pain, daily life activities, percentage of athlete satisfaction with daily activities, and finally his performance and it can be used as a complementary treatment along with common therapies.
Evaluation of the effects of TECAR® application, regarding physical performance improvement, in high-level athletes
In this study, the less-performing lower limb of some athletes was treated with Tecartherapy. The applied protocol is able to enhance the average power development of the treated limb, with respect to the non-treated, contralateral one. Tecartherapy therefore allows athletes to obtain the best performance from their physical qualities and further studies will be useful to deepen the results of this research.
Abstract: The aim of the study is not only to confirm the validity and reliability of the TECAR® technique in the treatment of pathologies for which it is already used but also to widen its range of applications in order to use it as a support for the optimization of physical performance by increasing the muscle strength, by means of a daily treatment with HCR 901 over a period of 15 days. 8 athletes were subjected to the Tecar® treatment on the lower limb with lower force coefficient and to placebo treatment on the contralateral one. Treatment induces an increase in the average strength of the muscle, but not in the maximum force. Some blood chemistry values were also analysed: with respect to the baseline, an increase in CPK and lactate values was observed, but lower than the one detected in the untreated limb. Therefore, the protocol predisposes the muscle to an improvement in performance, but further studies are needed to deepen the research.
The use of Tecar® therapy in ankle sprain traumas
Ankle sprains are the most frequent traumas among athletes. This study points out how a treatment of 10 daily sessions of Tecartherapy is able to reduce pain during walking and to drain the periarticular effusion. In 7 subjects the ultrasound exam showed an almost complete resolution of the effusion.
Abstract Ankle sprains are the most frequently occurring in sports-related accidents. Careful treatment of the athlete in the early stages after the incident can better serve his recovery aimed at returning to competitive sports activity. The extent of periarticular effusion is not always an indicator of the severity of the lesion. However, the frequent large scale of the injury requires the application of RICE (Rest Ice Compression Elevation) within the first 48 hours. In this study, 15 subjects, who had suffered class I or II inversion ankle sprain were placed under treatment on the third day after the injury with TECAR® therapy (capacitive and resistive transfer biostimulation therapy), a recently discovered physical resource which uses the condenser as its reference model. The treatment protocol consisted of 10 daily sessions lasting 24 minutes (12 minutes with automatic resistive electrode and 12 minutes with capacitive electrode). Each patient was examined both before and after the first and final session for impedance in the treated area as a way of estimating the tissue changes induced by the therapy. It was possible to estimate the effect of microcirculation stimulation by TECAR® therapy through the variations in local impedance shown. In addition, reduction in subjective pain during gait (VAS) and bimalleolar breadth was also demonstrated. At the end of the treatment cycle, ultrasound examinations revealed a subtotal resolution of periarticular effusion in 7 subjects.
Keywords: Ankle sprain, rehabilitation, physiotherapy
Multicentre study on Tecar® therapy in sports pathologies
athletes affected by acute and chronic musculo-skeletal and tendineous diseases have undergone Tecar®therapy protocols. Results showed, both in acute and chronic lesions, a drastic and immediate pain reduction and a shortening in recovery times, which is fundamental in order to rapidly resume sport activity.
Abstract This study is a multicentre study conducted on 116 athletes with acute and chronic musculoskeletal and tendinous pathologies, who were administered procedures with TECAR® therapy, which is a capacitive and/or resistive energy transfer therapy. The objective of the study was to measure the reduction of pain with VAS and to reduce motor recovery time. The experiment was conducted under the management of Professor Carlo Tranquilli in Rome, Gian Paolo Ganzit in Torino, Pasquale Bergamo in Reggio Emilia, and Franco Combi in Cinisello Balsamo at Bassini Hospital. Comprehensive results of some of the groups are reported.
Keywords: Endogenous hyperthermia, musculotendinous trauma, soft tissue pathology.
Novel methods for the treatment of muscle trauma in athletes
The effectiveness of T.E.CA.R. therapy in treating acute and chronic muscular lesions was evaluated. This kind of injuries are increasingly frequent in sports field, due to the greater interest by people of all ages. The device allowed the subjects to recover the functionality, reabsorb the swallowing and eliminate pain in no more than 18 sessions, with a minimum of 5 resolvent applications. This therapy is therefore recommended in the early and conservative tratment of muscular lesions.
Abstract Over recent years, sports activities, competitive and otherwise, have involved increasingly diverse age groups, with a consequent increase in those taking part; sports medicine problems have increased at a similar rate, especially in the field of the prevention and rehabilitation of sports- related injuries affecting the musculoskeletal apparatus. The Traumatology–Kinesiology and Rehabilitation Unit at the Institute of Sports Medicine in Bologna is conducting research and testing new equipment for use as physiotherapy devices with the purpose of identifying treatment protocols which, in compliance with our bodies’ physiological repair mechanisms, effectively accelerate musculoskeletal injury recovery times with minimal invasiveness. The effects of TECAR® therapy devices have been assessed for the treatment of direct and indirect acute muscle trauma in athletes, with reference to the technical characteristics of the device and the theories pertaining to the chemical-biological interactions with tissues. This paper presents the results of a two-year study protocol intended to verify the efficacy of TECAR® therapy in various grades of muscle lesions in athletes, by means of clinical- instrumental evaluations (pain, swelling, functional impotence, musculotendinous ultrasound) before and after one cycle of standardised treatment. 30 subjects (27 males and 3 females) with a mean age of 32 years (max. 58, min. 16), under observation for distractive- type muscle trauma, have been treated. Each patient has been assessed in terms of clinical symptomatology, and the diagnosis has been made by means of an ultrasound examination using a 7.5 MHz probe. The subjects have been treated at a rate of one session per day, with no more than 5 sessions per week, at least 72 hours after the trauma, and treatment has been continued until resolution of the situation as judged by ultrasound (reabsorption of the haematoma, the appearance of fibres in the lesion area, scar formation), for a maximum of 18 and a minimum of 5 applications in total (mean of 8). Despite the extent of some of the lesions treated, it has never been necessary to perform more than 18 treatments, giving an overall duration of 4 weeks of treatment. The excellent results obtained, in terms of speed of resolution of the clinical- symptomatological and ultrasound situation, combined with the ease of handling of the equipment, allow us to recommend TECAR® therapy as a remarkably effective device in the early non-surgical treatment of muscle lesions.
Keywords: Sports Medicine, traumatology, muscle trauma
New methods in the treatment of joint-muscular pathologies in athletes: the TECAR therapy
This study underlines the effectiveness of Tecartherapy in acting on acute and chronic muscular, articular and tendineous lesions caused by sport activity, even those previously treated with different therapies, without being successful. The protocol was effective both in evaluation by an external observer, by Steinbroker index, and in auto-evaluation of perceived pain, made by the patient.
Abstract This study utilized Tecar® therapy, a capacitive and/or resistive energy transfer system that operates within the long wave radio frequency range in the treatment of acute and chronic musculo-articular pathology in athletes. Tecar® therapy is characterized by the transfer of energy within tissues by using a capacitive electrode covered by an insulator and a resistive electrode conductor, following the mechanism of a condenser. The device used is composed of a generator that distributes signals at a frequency of 0.5 MHz at a maximum power of 300 watts. The study observed 327 subjects (120 females, 207 males) between 18 and 60 years of age with acute and chronic sports pathologies. They were divided into two groups, one comprised of 68 cases of acute pathologies which had not been previously treated, and another comprised of 259 cases of chronic pathologies treated by various methods. The sessions were started with resistive treatment with an electrode positioned on the area to be treated for 10 minutes (5 minutes for muscular pathology), followed by another 10 minutes (15 minutes for muscular pathology) with a capacitive electrode applied. The progression of symptoms was clinically monitored and evaluated by an independent observer using the Steinbroker index modified for athletic activity and with the visual analogue scale (VAS) from 0 to 10 where 0 corresponds to no pain and 10 corresponds to intolerable pain. The pathologies treated were articular, muscular, and tendinous, and among these, those that displayed a more marked change in functional class were the muscular pathologies. The results obtained indicate that Tecar® therapy is a useful tool in the treatment of sports pathologies of the bone, joints, and muscles. It compares with other therapies in terms of the presence or absence of certain positive effects but it also has distinct characteristics that are effective even where other treatments have failed.
Keywords: Hyperthermia, musculo-articular pathology, vasodilatation
CRET therapy treatment in the sphere of acute insertion and Achilles heel tendinopathies
Amateur athletes with Achilles heel tendinopathy of varying severity were treated with 6 sessions of Tecartherapy. At the end of the treatment, in many cases a complete resorption of the oedema and a strong reduction of pain was observed, so that a month after the treatment some subjects were able to resume sport activities. Tecartherapy has proven to be a useful tool in the treatment of acute Achilles heel tendinopathies, without contraindications.
Abstract In this study, 32 amateur athletes patients, suffering from Achilles heel tendinitis, with functional limitation, pain and localized oedema, were treated on average 3 days after diagnosis. For each patient a case report was written and they were asked to evaluate the degree of limitation due to the pathology, in terms of sporting activity and daily activities, choosing between 3 options: none, slight or considerable. All patients considered themselves severely limited in sports activity and 78% (25) slight limited also in daily activities, while the remaining (7) complained of a considerable limitation also in these activities. After 6 consecutive daily sessions, in 22 patients a complete resorption of oedema was observed, in 8 a reduction in the effusion and in 2 cases absence of improvement. The mean value of pain perception on the VAS scale decreased from 7.3 to 2.5, and reduced to 1.5 at 30 days after treatment. Also, at the end of follow-up, 10 patients resumed sporting activity. There were no episodes of intolerance to the treatment.
Source: F. Russi, CRET therapy treatment in the sphere of acute insertion and Achilles heel tendinopathies, 2001
CRET therapy in treatment of tendinopathies
This study highlights the effectiveness of Tecartherapy in treating tendinopathies of various origins in sports subjects: in fact, patients report, in the majority of cases, a reduction in pain and a recovery in functionality of the affected area. After only 5-10 sessions, in some cases the pain has completely disappeared (19%) and patients can resume sport activity (30%).
Abstract Recently, a system has been created that works with long-wave radiofrequencies (0.5 MHz), to perform a capacitive and resistive energy transfer, known as Tecartherapy. This treatment has the particularity of transferring energy towards the inside of the tissues. The device used in this study (HCR 901, Unibell) emits radiofrequency at a frequency of 0.485 MHz. The technology has been used to treat 90 sports patients with different tendinopathies. The evaluation of effectiveness was performed by an independent observer using the Steinbroker scale modified for sports activities and by self-assessment by the patient himself with the VAS scale for perceived pain. After 5-10 sessions, in 79.9% of the cases improvements were achieved, and in 30% the patients were able to resume sport activity, while in 19% of the cases the pain disappeared completely. Only 11% of patients reported the treatment to be ineffective.
Source: G. P. Ganzit et al, TECAR therapy in treatment of tendinopathies, Il Medico Sportivo, 2001; No.1 (Supplemento
No.1)
© 2000, Minerva Medica Torino
Reactivate the natural repairing mechanisms
The treatment of the triangular fibrocartilage complex lesion with Tecartherapy has shown a faster functional recovery, a strong reduction of the perceived pain, evaluated by VAS scale, which reaches values close to 0, and a better reconstruction of the cartilage, when compared with athletes previously subjected to standard rehabilitation techniques.
Abstract The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of Tecartherapy in treating the golfer's triangular fibrocartilage lesion, an impact trauma due to an incorrect athletic gesture or to a chronic microtraumatism due to the limb overload in consequence to a repeated movement. 5 patients were treated with Tecartherapy and assessed by VAS scale of pain perception and nuclear magnetic resonance. The comparison was made with a group of athletes previously treated with classical methods. A nuclear magnetic resonance performed 30 days after the trauma showed in one case the complete reconstruction of the articular cartilage and in general an almost total reduction of pain.
Source: C. Tranquilli & G. Morandi, Riattivare i naturali meccanismi riparativi, Sport&Medicina, 2018; 3: 47-51
© Edi.Ermes
Comparison between capacitive and resistive electronic transfer therapy and high-intensity laser therapy in pain conditions related to musculoskeletal disorders
ABSTRACT Introduction: Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) imply damage to muscular or skeletal systems, which usually develop due to strenuous, repetitive activity, or an inflammation process. The therapy with capacitive and resistive electronic transfer (CRet) and high-intensity laser therapy (HILT) have mainly been applied for pain relief in these conditions. This paper aims to provide an overview of the efficient results of CRet therapy and HILT in managing pain associated with musculoskeletal disorders found in the available literature. Methods: Articles related to musculoskeletal disorders were searched through electronic databases, such as PubMed, Web of Knowledge, Lilacs, Cochrane, Research Gate, and available website search tools. After excluding records that are not clinical trials and studies (such as review articles, patient information, and Ph.D. papers) and articles which did not deal with pain in musculoskeletal disorders, 61 articles met our criteria and were included in the overview. Results: By reviewing the selected articles related to CRet therapy and HILT effects on pain in musculoskeletal disorders, it was found that both therapies have a favorable effect on pain reduction. Conclusion: The selected papers showed that both therapies are powerful tools for pain reduction. Although there are no specific protocols, including the number and frequency of therapies applied and other parameters, in both therapy modalities, pain alleviation occurs during or immediately after a therapy cycle application.
Experimental study: therapeutic application of Tecartherapy in cervical algic syndrome
Tecartherapy applied to patients suffering from cervical algic syndrome is able to induce a recovery in neck mobility and to significantly reduce pain, not only in the immediate post-treatment period, but also long-term, as demonstrated by the results of the study after a two-months follow-up.
Abstract About 2/3 of the population have at least one episode of cervicalgia in their lifetime. It is estimated that the chronicity occurs in 10% of the subjects. The definition of "cervical pain syndrome" indicates a pain in the posterior region of the neck, more precisely in the area between the upper nuchal line and the horizontal line passing through the spines of the scapula; the pain, which can be felt monolaterally or bilaterally, is almost always accompanied by reflexed muscular contractions, with consequent stiffness of the neck joint. A sample of 20 patients was evaluated before and after the treatment with Tecartherapy and at 2 months of follow-up, using the "Neck Pain Questionnaire" (NPQ) and the "Numerical rating Scale" (NRS) for pain assessment. On average, the NRS value falls from 6.63 to 2.70 after treatment, and to 2.55 at follow-up. The NPQ value also decreases sharply, from 37.95% to 16.67% after treatment, and to 12.54% at the two-months followup. The results highlight the efficacy of Tecartherapy even in pathologies which are not of strictly sport origin, with a marked improvement in symptoms and a stable result over time, up to the two months of follow-up.
Source: G. Raffaetà et al, Studio sperimentale: applicazione terapeutica della tecarterapia nelle sindromi algiche
cervicali, EUROPA MEDICOPHYSICA, 2007; 43, suppl.1 to No. 3
© Minerva Medica
Randomized double-blind Tecartherapy versus placebo in the treatment of lower back pain
In patients suffering from chronic, exacerbted, low back pain, the treatment with Tecartherapy has an immediate effect on pain reduction, decreasing the probability of incurring in complications due to immobility and non-use, as well as being able to work completely from the first moments of rehabilitation.
Abstract Introduction. TECAR therapy (TTp) is a form of physical therapy acting at the level of tissue metabolism. The theoretical operating principle is the production of endogenous heat starting from the extracorporeal application of an oscillating magnetic field. The TECAR therapy treatment involves the synergy of the action of physical energy with the common methods of manual therapy (pompages, mobilization, massage therapy, etc.) and is used in acute and chronic osteoarticular diseases. Although patients and nurses commonly report an optimal response in terms of rapid pain reduction, there is currently no scientific evidence to clearly demonstrate its efficacy. The objective of the present work is therefore to evaluate the efficacy of TTp in a group of patients suffering from chronic low back pain. Materials and methods. 30 patients of both sexes with chronic exacerbated pain (VAS ≥ 5 in the last week) aged between 30 and 65 years were randomized into 2 groups: group A (TTp plus Massotherapy: 8 sessions 3 per week); group B (Placebo - switched off device - plus Massotherapy: 8 sessions 3 per week). The treatments of the 2 groups were carried out by the same physiotherapist. The evaluation was performed by an evaluating doctor, blinded to the treatment assigned. The following scales were used for the evaluation: VAS scale for pain assessment; Roland and Morris Disability Questionnaire to study the degree of disability; EUROQoL for the evaluation of the quality of life. Clinical checks were performed before treatment, at the fifth (T2) and at the last treatment session (T3), at 3 months (T4) and at 6 months (T5) after the end of treatment. Results. Preliminary results indicate for patients in group A a greater efficacy in the management of middle-grade pain with a significant decrease in its perception in short-term controls.
Source: P. Stagi et al, Studio clinico randomizzato in doppio cieco: tecarterapia versus placebo nel trattamento della
lombalgia, MEDICAPHYSICA EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF PHYSICAL AND REHABILITATION MEDICINE,
2008;44 (Suppl.1 to No. 3)
© Minerva Medica
Cervicalgia, lumbago, sciatica: application of capacitive energy transfer system
Chronic diseases are often difficult to treat with traditional methods. In this study the patients, after being unsuccessfully submitted to different treatments, thanks to Tecartherapy mentioned a remarkable improvement of symptoms in 65% of cases, immediately after the treatment session.
Abstract For this study, we selected a total of 23 patients sent from the Rehabilitation Unit of the University of Valladolid Hospital with diagnoses of simple lumbago, lumbosciatica, cervicalgia, and cervicobrachialgia after treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and conventional electrotherapy was unsuccessful. At the Centre, all were treated with the Capacitive Energy Transfer system. In this study, we describe the protocol of the treatment, diagnostic parameters, clinical course of development, and results obtained.
Keywords: Lumbosciatica, cervicobrachialgia, cervicalgia
Source: A. Molina et al, Cervicali, lombalgie, sciatalgie: applicazione del sistema a trasferimento energetico capacitivo,
Evidenze cliniche, Tecar, Unibell ed. settembre 2003, pp. 65-68
© 2003 Unibell International
TECAR therapy for Peyronie’s disease: a phase-one prospective study. Great evidence in patients with erectile dysfunction
In this study, there is evidence of the effectiverness of TECAR therapy in the treatment of pain in Peyronie’s disease. The treatment not only showed an evident effeciveness, but also its extreme tolerability and absence of adverse effects. Patients with erectile dysfunctions, moreover, reported an improvement in sexual potency.
Abstract Our phase-one prospective study wants to evaluate the safety and tolerability of TECAR therapy in the treatment of Peyronie’s disease. From June 2011 to September 2012 we enrolled 70 patients. Each patient had been previously subjected to andrological examination, to a questionnaire for the evaluation of IPP and ED, and the SF-36 (V1) for the evaluation of the general state of health. The evaluation of pain was made using the VAS scale of pain. Every patient was subjected to TECAR treatment of the fibrotic plaque (both in resistive mode and in capacitive mode) for a total of three sessions carried out on consecutive days. We recorded a good compliance by patients; none of them reported side effects. Pain was decreased by the technique in 80% of the cases. The whole sample completed the study. Surprisingly enough those patients who complained also of erectile dysfunction, reported an improvement in sexual potency.
Keywords: Erectile dysfunction, Peyronie’s disease, TECAR
Source: C. Pavone et al, Il Trasferimento Energetico Capacitivo Resistivo (TECAR) nella terapia dell’Induratio Penis
Plastica: studio pilota di fase uno sulla tollerabilità, sulla sicurezza e sull’applicabilità della tecnica. Quali altri risvolti
sorprendenti? Urologia 2013; 80(2): 148- 53
© 2013 Wichtig Editore
Role of FKT in the management of anterior knee pain. Confirmations and new insights
TECAR therapy in useful for the treatment of pain in patellofemoral jount syndrome, among other therapies and it can avoid the need of surgery for a number of patients.
Abstract The etiology of patellofemoral joint syndrome is multifactorial. Treatment is often conservative and successful. The rehabilitative program consists of exercises to increase VMO and quadriceps strength and to improve flexibility of the hamstrings, vastus lateralis and iliotibial band. Ultrasound, laser and TECAR therapy may decrease painful symptoms. Surgery should be reserved for patients with an unsuccessful six months’ conservative treatment.
Source: F.Di Domenica & L.Volonté, Il ruolo della fisiochinesiterapia nel dolore anteriore. Conferme e novità, Archivio
di Ortopedia e Reumatologia, 2008; 119(1): 25–26
© Springer-Verlag Italia 2008
Osteoarticular pain in geriatric patients: Treatment with capacitive energy transfer system
The results obtained by treating geriatric subjects with osteoarticular pain show a noticeable improvement in most patients, until a complete disappearance of the pain. The treatment is also easily combined with other therapeutic means.
Abstract: This study was conducted on 214 patients with joint pain, functional disability and muscular rigidity treated with the Capacitive Energy Transfer system. The results obtained revealed a significant improvement in 62 percent of the cases, that is, an improvement that was maintained as a stable condition over time. The evaluation was performed subjectively by the patient and verified by the physiotherapist and physician.
Keywords: Osteoarticular pain in the elderly pathology
Source: J.R. Bordas Serrat & D. Martinez, Dolore osteoarticolare in geriatria: trattamento con il sistema a
trasferimento energetico capacitivo
Immediate Effects of High-frequency Diathermy on Muscle Architecture and Flexibility in Subjects With Gastrocnemius Tightness
Background: The gastrocnemius (GCM) is one of the lower extremity muscles that tend to tighten easily. GCM tightness results in limited ankle dorsi-flexion (DF), especially when the knee joint is fully extended. Joint flexibility is determined by the morphological and physiological characteristics of joints, muscles, tendons, and ligaments. Impaired joint flexibility can be attributed to increased susceptibility to muscle injury. High-frequency diathermy is clinically used to reduce pain and muscle tightness and to improve limited range of motion. Objects: This study aimed to investigate the immediate effects of high-frequency therapy in subjects with GCM tightness. Methods: The study was designed as a one-group before–after trial. The subjects included 28 volunteers with GCM tightness (an active ankle DF angle of less than 12°) without any known neurological and musculoskeletal pathologies in the ankle and calf areas. WINBACK Transfer Electrode Capacitive and Resistive Therapy equipment was used to apply high-frequency therapy to the subjects’ GCMs for 10–15 minutes. The pennation angle and the fascicle length of the GCM were measured using ultrasonography. The flexibility of the ankle joint, peak torque to the passive ankle DF (Biodex), and soft tissue stiffness (MyotonPRO) were also measured. Results: The pennation angle was significantly decreased following the treatment; however, no significant difference in the fascicle length was found (p < 0.05). The flexibility was significantly increased and both the passive peak torque to passive ankle DF and the soft tissue stiffness significantly decreased (p < 0.05). Conclusion: High-frequency therapy is immediately effective for improving the muscle’s architectural properties and functional factors in subjects with GCM tightness. Further longitudinal clinical studies are required to investigate the long-term effects of high-frequency therapy on subjects with GCM tightness from various causes.
The Effectiveness of Tecar Therapy in Musculoskeletal Disorders
Abstract: Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of tecar therapy in musculoskeletal disorders. Methods: Computerized search in databases such as PubMed / Medline, Web of knowledge, Lilacs, Scielo, PEDro, RCAAP and Cochrane, to identify randomized controlled trials that evaluated the effectiveness of tecar therapy in musculoskeletal conditions. Results: Six articles, were included in this review, through the inclusion and exclusion criteria, where they were divided in four categories: low back pain, femur fracture, rotator cuff tendinopathy and delayed onset muscle soreness on the quadriceps. Conclusion: The tecar therapy is an excellent therapy for the physiotherapeutic use and it´s incorporation in a conventional rehabilitation program, or it´s isolated use, may have advantages in the short and long term effects.
Effects of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive On Musculoskeletal Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Abstract: The use of transfer energy capacitive and resistive (TECAR) therapy to treat musculoskeletal pain has not been clearly established. Hence, this study was conducted to combine the available results. We searched the main databases, including PubMed (January 1950), Web of Knowledge (January 1945), Scopus (January 1980), and ProQuest (January 1983) until December 2021, to find the related studies. Only those studies were included that assessed the pain in participants who received TECAR therapy and compared it with a control group. Using the random effect model, standardized mean difference (SMD) was calculated at a 95% confidence interval (CI). The differences between patients and control group were -1.04 after four weeks of intervention (95% CI: -1.59 to -0.48, I2 =86.9%) and -1.80 after eight weeks (95% CI: -2.15 to -1.46, I2 =87%), which was significant (P<0.001). The intra-group pain comparison before and after two, four, and eight weeks of TECAR therapy obtained SMD levels of -3.96 (95% CI: -5.28 to -2.65, I2 =96.9%), -4.12 (95% CI: -5.98 to -2.26, I2 =97.3), and -5.03 (95% CI: -7.23 to -2.83, I2 =92.2%), respectively. Despite some limitations, our findings may assist clinicians in decision-making about TECAR therapy for the approach to musculoskeletal pain based on evidence-based medicine.
Effectiveness of TECAR Therapy on Clinical Symptoms and Neurophysiological Parameters of Patients with Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Randomized Clinical Trial
Abstract: Background: Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most typical peripheral entrapment neuropathy. To date, various non-invasive methods have been used to manage CTS. This study investigates the effectiveness of Transfer Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR), a new physical agent modality, on symptoms and neurophysiological parameters in patients with CTS. Methods: In this single-blind randomized clinical trial, 29 patients with mild or moderate CTS were randomly assigned to two groups. Group 1 received TECAR therapy with a frequency of 500 Hz and an intensity of 30 to 50%, 2 sessions/week, in addition to wrist splints and vitamin B supplements for 4 weeks. Group 2 also received a wrist splint and vitamin B for 4 weeks without TECAR therapy. The Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Boston Carpal Tunnel Questionnaire (BCTQ-SSS and FSS), as well as clinical and neurophysiological findings, were assessed before and 8 weeks after treatment. Within and between-group comparisons were made after the intervention period.
The Effectiveness of 448 kHz Capacitive Resistive Monopoles Radio Frequency in Acute Ankle Sprain: A Case Report
Abstract: The aim of the present report was to find out the effect of 448 kHz Capacitive Resistive Monopolar Radiofrequency (CRMRF) in acute ankle sprain. A patient with right unilateral acute ankle sprain participated in the present case study. The patient followed a course of 448 kHz CRMRF twice per day for seven consecutive days. Evaluations included self-reported pain via a visual analogue scale, degree of ankle edema and ankle range of motion via goniometry carried out before the treatment and at the end of the treatment. There was a decline in pain and a rise in function in all evaluations. The results of the present trial suggest that a course of 448 kHz CRMRF as described in the present trial can produce significant improvements in terms of pain and disability in acute ankle sprain; however, larger studies are required confirming these results.
The effectiveness of Capacitive Resistive Diathermy (Tecartherapy®) in acute and chronic musculoskeletal lesions and pathologies
Abstract: Objectives: To assess the clinical effectiveness of capacitive resistive diathermy (Tecartherapy®) in treatment of musculoskeletal lesions and pathologies based on clinical researches. Data Sources: Major medical databases, including Pubmed, Medline, Science Direct and Google Scholar. Study selection: Articels that contained data on the treatment of acute and chronic pathologies in sports with TecarTherapy®. Data Synthesis: Seven articles studied the effectiveness of Tecartherapy® apparatus in athletes presenting acute and chronic pathologies of the musculoskeletal. Conclusion: We concluded that Capacitive resistive Diathermy Tecartherapy® is able to treat knee, shoulder, hip, ankle, spinal column, hand, muscle injuries rapidly ,and efficiently, in addition to painful inflammatory, osteoarticular and muscular disorders (arthrosis, lumbago, sciatica).
TECAR Therapy Associated with High-Intensity Laser Therapy (Hilt) and Manual Therapy in the Treatment of Muscle Disorders: A Literature Review on the Theorised Effects Supporting Their Use
Abstract: Background: It has been estimated that between 30 and 50 per cent of all injuries that take place throughout participation in a sport are the consequence of soft tissue injuries, and muscle injuries are the primary cause of physical disability. Methods: The current literature review was designed between October 2021 and April 2022, according to the PRISMA standards, using the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. At the screening stage, we eliminated articles that did not fit into the themes developed in all subchapters of the study (n = 70), articles that dealt exclusively with orthopaedics (n = 34), 29 articles because the articles had only the abstract visible, and 17 articles that dealt exclusively with other techniques for the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders. The initial search revealed 343 titles in the databases, from which 56 duplicate articles were automatically removed, and 2 were added from other sources. Results: The combination of these three techniques results in the following advantages: It increases joint mobility, especially in stiff joints, it increases the range of motion, accelerates tissue repair, improves tissue stability, and extensibility, and it reduces soft tissue inflammation (manual therapy). In addition, it decreases the concentration of pro-inflammatory mediators and improves capillary permeability, resulting in the total eradication of inflammation (HILT). It warms the deep tissues, stimulates vascularity, promotes the repose of tissues (particularly muscle tissue), and stimulates drainage (TECAR). Conclusions: TECAR therapy, combined with manual therapy and High-Intensity Laser therapy in treating muscle diseases, presented optimal collaboration in the recovery process of all muscle diseases.
Experience of Using Tekar Therapy in Patients with Diseases of the Musculoskeletal System and Nervous System
Abstract: The method of Tecar therapy is used in the treatment of joint diseases, in particular, osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint damage and one of the leading causes of disability in the world. According to statistics, in the age group from 25 to 74 years, about 30% of the population have joint pathology confirmed by radiation diagnostic methods. The main symptom of osteoarthritis, which forces the patient to seek specialized help, is pain. The frequently detected discrepancy between the severity of clinical and radiological manifestations of the disease is explained by the peculiarities of the formation and irradiation of pain in pathology. The study included 80 patients with radiologically confirmed diagnoses: 35 patients suffering from coxarthrosis (stages 2-3) and 45 patients suffering from gonarthrosis (stages 2-3). Of these, 38% are men. Pain intensity was assessed by a 10-point visual-analog pain scale (VAPS). Reduction of pain level by 5-6 points was assessed as significant for joints. It is also advisable to prescribe Tekar therapy for neuropathies of various etiologies since clinical experience shows a significant and rapid reduction of pain and inflammation after its implementation, which reduces the recovery time of such patients and improves their quality of life.
Evaluation of the effectiveness of capacitive and resistive energy transfer in Piriformis Syndrome: first experiences
Tecartherapy performed with HCR 901 (Unibell) was shown to reduce the symptomatology of subjects suffering from Piriformis Syndrome: a decrease in pain and a better load distribution between the lower limbs was observed. The beneficial effects of this therapy have allowed patients to recover their autonomy in carrying out daily actions.
Abstract: The Piriformis Syndrome (SP) is an often-misunderstood cause of pain in the gluteus, hip, sometimes with irradiation to the back portion of the thigh. The analysis of existing literature data shows that the main cause of SP is traumatic; other possible etiologies include lower limbs heterometers, major orthopaedic hip surgery and piriform-like myositis. The therapeutic treatments described for the SP include oral intake of NSAIDs and muscle relaxants, local anaesthetics and corticosteroid injections, direct inoculation of TBA and physiological therapies such as ultrasound, stretching, deep transversal massage. The aim of this clinical study is to evaluate the efficacy of Tecartherapy with HCR 901 (Unibell) in pain reduction, functional independence enhancement and improvement of load distribution between the lower limbs, in patients with Piriformis Syndrome. 10 subjects were treated with 10 sessions of 30 minutes, using the maximum power allowed by the patient's sensitivity to tissue heat enhancement. In no case adverse side effects were observed and all patients reported an improvement of the abovementioned symptoms since the first applications, with considerable variations between the parameters recorded in the pre-treatment phase and those verified at the15-days follow-up. Naturally our results are still small and preliminary and require further studies.
Source: D. Marchese et al, Valutazione dell’efficacia del trasferimento energetico capacitivo e resistivo nella sindrome
del piriforme: prime esperienze, EUR MED PHYS 2008; 44(Suppl. 1 to No. 3)
© Minerva Medica
Hyperthermia through resistive and capacitive energy transfer in the treatment of acute and chronic musculoskeletal lesions
Tecartherapy performed with HCR 900 (Unibell) has proven effective in reducing pain in a short time in patients who suffered from acute and chronic muscle, tendon and joint injuries of various origins. An immediate decrease in perceived pain was observed, which allowed to recover the function of the affected limb or joint.
Abstract The objective of this clinical study was to evaluate the efficacy of resistive and capacitive energy transfer induced through the application of TECAR® apparatus (HCR 900) in patients presenting acute and chronic pathologies of the musculoskeletal apparatus. Evaluating the intensity and time of exposure, there are possibilities for using this new method for in-depth energy transfer in tissues subjected to inflammatory reaction. De Lauteur and Lehmann noted how endogenous thermal increase can have therapeutic effects related to increased blood flow. The tissue, in fact, behaves as a semiconductor, offering resistance to the passage of electric energy and this is transformed to temperature. It is believed that the therapeutic action depends on the endothermic effect and the increase of potential energy of the cellular membranes. This study evaluates the efficacy of hyperthermia for chronic and acute musculoskeletal disorders. Depending on the power used, we can observe 3 phases characterised by biological effects well- defined as cellular biostimulation, analgesia, increased blood flow and phenomena of lymphatic drainage. The study examined 60 patients (33 with acute pathologies), the majority of which reported an improvement in pain symptoms
Keywords: Hyperthermia, cellular biostimulation, analgesia, lymphatic drainage, musculoskeletal pathology
Source: E. Parolo et al, Ipertermia a trasferimento energetico resistivo e capacitivo nel trattamento di lesioni muscoloscheletriche acute e croniche, La riabilitazione, 1998; 31(2): 81-3
Tecar® therapy in knee and spinal pathologies
This study analyses the efficacy of Tecartherapy on a series of disorders affecting the knee and spine: knee arthrosis, cervical spine, vertebral contusion by "whiplash", sciatica, hernia of the lumbar intravertebral discs. Tecartherapy is a very useful tool for most osteoarticular diseases and its validity increases when combined with other therapies. It is also easy to apply and without secondary effects
Abstract The positive results obtained with the HCR 900 device in various medical conditions can be attributed to a series of biological effects produced by the capacitive and resistive energy transfer technique. In particular, they can be related to the increase in internal temperature and simultaneous microdilatation of vessels, which in turn promote improved cellular biochemistry, and to increased blood and lymph flow, which increases nutrient and oxygen uptake, thereby optimizing intracellular respiration and the elimination of toxic catabolites. Based on this knowledge, it has been possible to test the clinical actions of HCR 900 at the Homeopathic and Biological Medicine Centre in Barcelona.
Keywords: Knee osteoarthritis, sciatica, cervical spine, whiplash, herniated disc
Source: M. P. Benitez & J. F. Colomer, La Tecarterapia nella patologia del ginocchio e della colonna vertebrale
Tecartherapy in tendinopathies of the rotator cuff: our experience
In individuals affected by rotator cuff tendinopathy, the treatment with capacitive-resisitive energy transfer allows, a rapid pain elimination, a rapid restoration of limb function and an improvement in quality of life.
Abstract Tendinopathies of the rotator cuff represent the most frequent cause of pain and functional impotence of the shoulder. In this study we aimed to compare the results obtained using the Resistive Capacitive Energy Transfer (TECAR) associated with a functional rehabilitation program, versus the use of combined physical therapy (iontophoresis, TENS, LASER, and ultrasound). The patients were divided into two groups: group A was treated with physical therapy protocols which involved the combination of electrotherapy (iontophoresis and T.E.N.S) with ultrasound and LASER associated with functional rehabilitation; group B was treated with the capacitive-resistive energy transfer also associated with functional reeducation. The integrated rehabilitative treatment performed by group B determined the resolution of the oedema after the first three treatment sessions, the restoration of both active and passive mobility with a significant reduction in the algic symptoms, as demonstrated by the values of the VAS scale and the Simple Shoulder Test already after the first four weeks with further improvements observed at the eighth week of follow-up.
Source: G. Sanguedolce et al, Tecar-terapia nelle tendinopatie della cuffia dei rotatori: nostra esperienza, EUR MED
PHYS 2009;45(Suppl. 1 to No. 3)
©Minerva Medica, Torino
Multicentre, randomised, controlled study of the efficacy and safety of treatment with regenerative diathermy in Achilles tendinitis, trochanteric bursitis and temporomandibular syndrome
This study shows that treatment with Tecartherapy induces an improvement in the perception of symptoms in patients suffering from Achilles tendinitis and trochanteric bursitis. Moreover, the technology allows to obtain complete compliance from the patient and has no side effects.
Abstract Questo studio multicentrico, randomizzato e controllato indaga l’efficacia e la sicurezza della tecnologia Tecar in tre condizioni: tendinite dell’Achilleo (AT), borsite trocanterica (TB) e sindrome temporo-mandibolare (TMS). 66 pazienti sono stati suddivisi in un gruppo placebo e uno trattato e sono stati valutati con la scala VAS, SF-36 e mediante una scala di osservazione paziente/osservatore, prima e dopo il periodo di trattamento di 1 mese. È da segnale l’alta accettazione della terapia e l’assenza di effetti indesiderati. L’impressione soggettiva di miglioramento era molto forte nel caso di TB e AT. Questo però non corrispondeva ai risultati della scala VAS e SF-36, in cui le risposte erano simili al placebo. This multicentre, randomized, controlled study investigates the efficacy and safety of Tecar technology in three conditions: Achilles tendinitis (AT), trochanteric bursitis (TB) and temporomandibular syndrome (TMS). 66 patients were divided into a placebo and a treated group and were assessed with the VAS scale, the SF-36 questionnaire and a patient / observer observation scale, before and after the 1-month treatment period. The high compliance to the therapy and the absence of undesirable effects are to be stressed. In Tecartherapy treated patients. the subjective impression of improvement was very strong in the case of TB and AT. However, this did not correspond to the results of the VAS and SF-36 scales, in which the responses were similar to placebo.
Source: V. Poca Dias et al, Multicentre, randomised, controlled study of the efficacy and safety of treatment with
regenerative diathermy in Achilles tendinitis, trochanteric bursitis and temporomandibular syndrome, Clinical
Rheumatology, Vol. 5, Congress Special, May 2009
TECAR: Complementary treatments for TMJ disfunctions
Abstract Aim: our aim is to illustrate usefulness of Tecar therapy in the rehabilitation of sport-related articular diseases. Materials and Methods: the machine’s functioning principle aimed at pain reduction and at the fastest possible recovery of the normal articular function, is hereby presented. Consequently, all the procedures employed in the specific dysfunctional and flogistic situations (acute and chronic) are illustrated. Results: It is useful to employ Tecar therapy in different cases: patients with chronic extra-articular tensive muscle pathologies; patients who suffered an acute trauma and subsequent loss of the articular disc; patients suffering from cronic intra-articular disease and permanent loss of the articular disc. The patients considered had been already treated following the standard odontoiatric and fisiotherapic procedures (according to Rocabado’s methodology). Conclusion: JTM disfunctions’ pathology uses many different odontoiatric and auxiliary means. Tecar therapy can be utilized both in acute and chronic cases since its two specific programs are able to generate heat or work in a heat-proof environment.
Authors: Pietro Nannelli, Filippo Nannelli, Caterina Di Matteo, Alessandro L. Cerretti
Fonte: P. Nannelli et al, Tecar®: terapia complementare nelle disfunzioni dell'ATM, XXII Congresso Internazionale
SIDO 24-27 Novembre 2010, Fortezza da Basso, FI
Hip joint arthroplasty: early rehabilitation through Tecartherapy
The study demonstrates the efficacy of Tecartherapy in reducing post-operative pain in patients who have undergone surgery for hip endoprosthesis. The decrease in pain allows to recover the joint mobility in a short time and with a high compliance by the patients.
Abstract A study was conducted on a sample of 73 patients who had undergone hip arthroplasty surgery, treated with Tecartherapy in the postoperative period. The data analysis showed that in most patients an immediate and long-lasting analgesic effect was obtained, the ROM increased significantly, doubling or tripling the degrees of flexion and the skin temperature significantly decreased already from the first sessions. Therefore, the use of Tecartherapy can be quite rightly included among the conventional methods employed in rehabilitation treatments for patients operated for hip arthroplasty both for the effects obtained on tissues and for the accelerated functional recovery with an excellent compliance of the patient
Source: A. Alberti & C. Fusi, Artroprotesi coxofemorale: riabilitazione precoce mediante Tecarterapia, Il Fisioterapista,
Jan-feb 2011, pp. 75-80
Tecar therapy in post-surgical treatment of femur fractures
This study shows the efficacy of the treatment with HCR 901 in reducing pain and oedema at the thigh muscles in patients who underwent surgery following femur fracture. Patients were discharged after 7 days.
Abstract The aim of the study is to evaluate the efficacy of Tecartherapy with HCR 901 in supporting the standard rehabilitative protocol in the post-surgical treatment of femur fractures. 30 patients were divided into two groups: in the first one the patients underwent treatment with Tecartherapy together with the standard rehabilitation protocol; in the second group only the latter was performed. Pain (by means of the visual analogue scale - VAS) and oedematous thigh imbibition were measured by considering the circumference of the femoral quadriceps of both lower limbs. Patient discharges took place on average after seven days and then they returned to the clinic for a maintainance treatment. Regarding the pain, in the group treated with Tecartherapy a statistically significant reduction was recorded in the fourth and seventh day. No significant reduction was documented in the control group. As regards oedema, the lower increase measured in the Tecar group compared to the control group showed a statistical significance.
Source: A. Terranova et al, Tecarterapia nel trattamento post-chirurgico delle fratture di femore, EUR MED PHYS
2008;44(Suppl. 1 to No. 3)
Long-term follow-up of two continued series of young athletes after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with hamstrings treated with electromagnetic waves, Tecartherapy device
The treatment with Tecartherapy allows the athletes who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction to rapidly get back to sport activity, by eliminating oedema and pain in a short time.
Abstract For this purpose, two different groups of athletes have been evaluated: 20 patients were treated with Tecartherapy and standard physiotherapy from the first day after surgery to the twentieth week; 10 patients, representing the control group, were treated with standard physiotherapy only. We have evaluated the subjective pain through the Visual Analogic Scale (VAS), oedema and inflammation through leg circumference and the proprioceptivity through stabilometric platform (KAT 2000). Our findings pointed out a reduction of inflammation, pain and oedema, and an improvement of proprioceptivity. These elements allow a quicker mobilization, a recovery time reduction and a faster return at the previous sport level.
Source: P. Bottiglia Amici Grossi et al, Studio sperimentale: tecarterapia. Confronto tra due serie continue di giovani
sportivi sottoposti a ricostruzione del legamento crociato anteriore SICOT/SIROT 2008 XXIV Triennal World
Congress
TECAR in plastic surgery: preliminary results
This preliminary study shows the efficacy of Tecartherapy in acting on superficial and deep scars due to surgery. The technique is well accepted by patients and has no side effects.
Abstract Scars are an unavoidable consequence of plastic surgery. Tecartherapy treatment allows to reduce the oedema after a surgical injury and to reduce the stiffness of the fibrotic tissue in correspondence of skin scars and to decrease the tissue compactness in the deep scars. This allows to obtain a beneficial effect on the consequent secondary contractures of the soft tissues. The treatment is also safe, easy to use and to learn and allows for complete patient compliance.
Source: G.S. Toussoun et al, TECAR in chirurgia plastica: risultati preliminari
PRELIMINARY EVIDENCE OF EFFECTIVENESS OF TECAR IN LYMPHEDEMA
Abstract Lymphedema of the lower limbs often contributes to the mobility impairment of morbidly obese patients. Defining novel costeffective protocols is important for reducing treatment costs. The study aimed to assess if Capacitive and Resistive Energy Transfer (TECAR) can reduce edema and the minimum number of sessions needed to observe volume reduction. Forty-eight severely obese subjects (age range: 46-78 years; BMI >40 kg/m2) with bilateral lower limb lymphedema were divided into three groups undergoing either manual lymphatic drainage, pressure therapy, or TECAR, in addition to a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program. They were compared to a control group composed by 12 women (age: 67.4 ± 8.9 years, BMI: 44.6 ± 4.1 Kg/m2) undergoing only the rehabilitation program. A handheld laser scanner 3D system was used for volume measurements. In addition, patients were evaluated with a Timed Up and Go (TUG) test and pain/heaviness of the lower limbs with a Visual Analog Scale (VAS). A significant volume reduction was observed after 6 sessions of TECAR: specifically, in the whole limb (PRE: 9.7+2.8 dm3; POST: 9.4+2.8 dm3; p<0.05) and in the thigh (PRE: 3.5+1.3 dm3; POST: 3.3+1.2 dm3; p<0.05). The TUG and VAS for pain showed a significant improvement in all groups. Our preliminary results suggest that TECAR can provide a relatively early reduction of lower limb edema with improvement of patients' function and pain.
Experimental study on the use of Tecartherapy® in reducing the viscoelastic component of spastic muscle in children affected by PCI
Infantile cerebral palsy (ICP) is a disorder caused by alterations in prenatal brain development, up to the initial postnatal period, which compromises movement and posture. While it is not a progressive disease, the symptoms can be counteracted with an adequate therapeutic action. When treating ICP children with Tecartherapy® and comparing the results with the stretching alone, an increase in the flexibility of the tibio-tarsal joint is observed. A remarkable fact emerging from the study is that the best results are obtained by treating younger subjects. Tecartherapy® can therefore be incorporated into traditional therapies, considering that the earlier the intervention is, the greater the effectiveness
Abstract Infantile cerebral palsy (ICP) is a persistent, non-progressive yet non-immutable disorder of movement and posture. It is due to an altered development of the brain for pre-peri- or post-natal causes, before completing the correct growth. The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of Tecartherapy® in counteracting the shortening of spastic muscles in the ICP child, by modifying the viscoelastic component. In particular sural triceps is treated. 8 ICP patients (4 with diplegia, 1 with hemiplegia, 3 with tetraplegia) with a shortening of the muscular length of the tibiotarsal joint, caused by spasticity, were divided into two groups (HCR-treated and controls, treated with stretching alone). They were evaluated by joint measurement at the beginning, during and after the 6 months of treatment. Measuring the soleus length with flexed knee, a similar increase is observed in both in groups, while measuring the length of the gastrocnemius and the variation in the articular Range of Motion (ROM) with extended knee, a greater variation was detected in treated patients compared to controls. It was also noted that age is inversely proportional to the effectiveness. When acting on the soleus, it is necessary to use the resistive modality, which acts deeper, because of the anatomical position of the muscle and the slightly different histology, compared to the gastrocnemius.
Source: L. Musetti et al, Studio sperimentale sull'utilizzo della Tecarterapia nella riduzione della componente viscoelastica del muscolo spastico nel bambino affetto da PCI, 2008
Centro A.I.A.S. Busto Arsizio (VA)
Phantom limb pain: treatment with Tecar® therapy and TENS
The use of Tecartherapy has proven, with respect to TENS, a greater and more immediate therapeutic analgesic action in the short-term treatment of phantom limb pain.
Abstract This study was conducted at INAIL Prosthetic Centre in Vigorso di Budrio (Bologna), Italy in order to test the efficacy of TECAR® therapy in reducing phantom limb pain. Forty-one patients who had undergone amputation and were suffering from phantom-limb syndrome were divided into two groups, one treated with TECAR ® therapy and the other with TENS. The results showed an immediate and considerable therapeutic action of TECAR® therapy compared to the administration of TENS.
Keywords: Phantom limb syndrome, analgesia
Source: D. Orlandini et al, Arto fantasma doloroso: trattamento con tecarterapia e TENS, Centro A.I.A.S. Vigorso di
Budrio
Preliminary study on the effects of capacitive and resistive energy transfer therapy (Tecar®) on the treatment of hemiplegic painful shoulder
The treatment with Tecartherapy® is able to reduce pain in hemiplegic patients who suffer from painful shoulder. The recovery of limb mobility, although not significant from a statistical point of view, is evident from the clinical point of view. There are no differences with the TENS therapy in the short-term evaluation.
Abstract 70-84% of patients with hemiplegia complain of shoulder pain. This complication negatively interferes with the rehabilitation project and in general with the possibility of recovery. The aim of this study was to compare two different therapeutic protocols: a) Tecartherapy® and therapeutic exercise b) TENS and therapeutic exercise 18 patients were randomized into two groups. Pain is reduced in both groups, in a statistically significant manner. The passive range of motion of the shoulder joint is not statistically significant but clinically evident. No significant differences were found in the two groups, at an evaluation in the immediate post-treatment.
Source: C. Damiani et al, Studio preliminare sugli effetti del trattamento della spalla dolorosa dell’emiplegico con
terapia a trasferimento energetico capacitivo e resistivo (Tecar®), ISPRM: 4th World Congress of the International
Society of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine; 2007, Seoul (South Korea)
Tecartherapy® in the diabetic foot
The treatment with Tecartherapy® gives relief to diabetic patients with cutaneous lesions of the foot, a common complication of this pathology in the most serious stages. In fact, the treatment is able to reduce pain, where present, and to accelerate wound healing.
Abstract The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of the use of Tecartherapy® in the management of diabetic foot ulcers. 20 patients with neuroischemic ulcers, Wagner class II or III, were divided into two groups: group A was treated with Tecartherapy® and conventional local therapy and group B was treated with placebo Tecartherapy®, plus conventional local therapy. From the analysis of the collected data, we observed a marked improvement of the algic symptoms, when present, in the patients treated with Tecartherapy ®, in addition to a more rapid wound healing.
Source: E. Cavani et al, La Tecarterapia® nel piede diabetico, Vasculopatia diabetica, 2010
Asthma treatment with TEC
The treatment with Capacitive Energy Transfer therapy in patients suffering from bronchial asthma from more than six months has proven effective in reducing symptomatology and therefore the need of drug assumption.
Abstract This clinical trial was conducted on 52 patients who were suffering from bronchial asthma for more than six months, which have been treated with capacitive energy transfer therapy. In 60% of the cases a clear improvement of the bronchospasm with a decrease, of dyspnoea and less need for pharmacological supports were observed. The treatment with this therapy has also significantly reduced recurrences occurrence. Asthma in severe form is a disease which affects 3% of the population. Therefore, it is of extreme interest to find new treatments which succeed in the solving dyspnoeic crises quickly and without the use of drugs, together with making them less recurrent and / or intense.
Keywords: Bronchial asthma, hyperthermia
Source: J.R. Bordas Serrat & D. Martinez, Trattamento dell’asma mediante TEC
Effects of Tecartherapy on Body Tissue: A Systematic Review
ABSTRACT Electrophysical devices based on diathermy are one of the modalities used by many professionals to treat pain. The objective of this study was to identify the effects of Tecartherapy on healthy and unhealthy tissues. A systematic review of Tecartherapy technology was carried out. Articles published up to the year 2023 were investigated. The search argument used was “Capacitive-resistive electrical transfer” OR “Tecar” OR “Therapy Tecar” OR “CRET” in the BVS, Cochrane, PEDro, PubMed, IEEE Explore databases, Scielo and Web of Science. As for the main results of using Tecartherapy, there is an increase in temperature. In healthy tissues there is an increase in local blood flow, a decrease in muscle fatigue and an increase in muscle flexibility. In addition to the effects observed on healthy tissues, pain reduction and improved joint function were also observed. It was concluded that this technology has similar effects to other diathermy, but Tecartherapy proved to be safer and more comfortable.
Evaluation of the effects of the application of a 0,485 MHz radiofrequency through a capacitive-resistive energetic transfer system (TECAR®) on the muscle tissue. A double-blind crossover study
The tests performed on athletes, following treatment with Tecartherapy® after a physical performance show that it is effective in reducing the stress to which the muscle is subjected. There is also an indication of microcirculation enhancement. Moreover, the muscle power obtained through physical training is preserved.
Abstract For this clinical study, 10 healthy subjects were enrolled, who practiced sport at an amateur level, randomly divided into two groups: - Group A: cases. Subjects treated with the TECAR® - ON protocol after a physical performance, for a total of 25 minutes - Group B: controls. Subjects treated in the same way as group A, but with the switched off device (TECAR® protocol - OFF), after a physical performance. After 7 days, the study was repeated cross-over. The results can be summarized as follows: blood values of CPK, Myoglobin and Lactate, undergo a smaller increase in subjects treated with Tecartherapy. The Muscle Power-Doppler exam showed a significant increase in the spots only in the treated subjects. Regarding the parameters on muscle performance, the only statistically significant data is a decrease in power (W / kg) in the control group, These results highlight the beneficial effects of this therapy in reducing the stress of a tissue subjected to physical training (and in particular the effects on muscle fibres), in stimulating the microcirculation at a local level and in preserving muscle power during recovery post-work out.
Source: M. Tofanicchio et al, Valutazione degli effetti della applicazione della radiofrequenza a 0.485 MHz attraverso
l’utilizzo di un sistema a trasferimento energetico capacitivo-resistivo (TECAR®) sul tessuto muscolare mediante un
Crossover Study in doppio cieco, Sports Medicine 11 - Traumatology Rehabilitation, p573