Abstract
Local and remote changes in skin temperature in men induced by TECAR therapy: an observational study
- Department of Theoretical and Practical Basics of Physical Therapy, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
- Rehabilitation and Therapeutic and Sports Massage Office Sławomir Rerak, As-Med, Sosnowiec, Poland
- Institute of Physiotherapy and Health Sciences, The Jerzy Kukuczka Academy of Physical Education in Katowice, Katowice, Poland
Background
TECAR therapy generates thermal effects in both superficial and deep tissues. However, its ability to induce temperature changes in body regions distant from the actively heated area remains unclear.
Aims
This study aimed to determine the extent to which TECAR therapy applied to the lumbosacral spine alters skin temperature at the treated area and at selected remote regions of the trunk and lower extremities.
Material and methods
Fifteen healthy male participants underwent a 15-minute TECAR session (capacitive and resistive phases). Skin temperatures were assessed using thermal imaging before, immediately after, and at eight 5-minute intervals post-treatment.
Results
Significant changes (p ≤ 0.05) were observed in skin temperature both at the treated site and in several remote regions following TECAR application.
Conclusions
TECAR therapy applied to the lumbosacral spine increases skin temperature not only at the heated site but also in distant areas, including the anterior knee, anterior thigh, abdomen, and chest.
Keywords
capacitive resistive electric transfer; TECAR therapy; diathermy; skin temperature
Integrated with
