Intelect® Shortwave 400
16
CONTrAiNdiCATiONS
The following list of contraindications – which is by no
means to be regarded as being comprehensive – should
always be observed when applying shortwave treatment for
therapeutic purposes.
Always be sure to ask the patient about these
contraindications, as not all contraindications are
immediately recognizable by the therapist (e.g. pregnancy).
In addition, any external signs that might point to the
existence of contraindications (e.g. scars, etc.) should
always be reason enough to ask the patient about
contraindications.
As a rule, any shortwave therapy must be strictly based on
an accurate diagnosis.
Contraindications
•
Patients with a cardiac pacemaker may under no
circumstances be subjected to shortwave
therapy. The effects of the applied high frequency
on the pacemaker could cause ventricular
fibrillation. Any other persons with pacemakers
must also remain outside of the treatment area
during the shortwave therapy.
•
Patients whose condition could be negatively affected by
heat.
•
Patients with tuberculosis.
•
Patients with hemorrhages or risk of hemorrhage.
•
Patients with septic conditions and empyemas.
•
Patients with malignant tumors and tumors that are not
yet identified. ¹
¹
According to Schneider (in Elektromedizin 7/62): Tissue and organ sections with
inflammations, necroses, pus formation and abscesses. In such cases, the therapist must
choose between the application of cold or heat in accordance with general pathological
considerations, depending on the degree of inflammation. Inflammatory conditions that
are still in statu nascendi are treated with cold. Inflammatory conditions with necroses and
a cavitary tendency are treated with therapeutic means that generate heat and hyperemia.
Chronic and unspecific inflammations are treated in the same way (heat and hyperemia),
as this supports resorption, reparation and regeneration. Specific chronic inflammations
(such as tuberculosis), however, are activated by heat. Accordingly, they represent a
contraindication. The same applies in the case of malignant tumorous conditions. Heat
application in the case of a tumorous disease can only be regarded as malpractice. Moreover,
cardiac congestions must be removed prior to any heat application.
General
