THE APPLICATION OF TECAR THERAPY IN THE SHOULDER REHABILITATION PROCESS

Abstract

Physical medicine represents an important part of modern rehabilitation and the treatment of the musculoskeletal system. This paper presents the application of one of the most advanced rehabilitation methods in physical medicine – Tecar therapy, its mechanism of action, as well as its effects on pain reduction and improvement of patients’ functional abilities. Tecar therapy uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy with the aim of stimulating the body’s natural regenerative processes. This therapy can be applied in sports injuries, inflammatory conditions, as well as in preoperative and postoperative rehabilitation. Contemporary research indicates that Tecar therapy contributes to faster recovery, improved circulation, reduction of inflammatory processes, pain relief, and reduction of muscle spasms. Due to its safety and effectiveness, Tecar therapy has a significant role in modern physical medicine. In combination with other physical rehabilitation methods and kinesitherapy, it enables the achievement of significant results within a shorter period of time. Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of novel rehabilitation methods, specifically TECAR therapy, on patients with shoulder joint disorders, with emphasis on its effectiveness, therapeutic benefits, and significant role in contemporary physical and rehabilitation medicine. Materials and Methods: A total of seven patients with shoulder joint disorders were included in the study. The participants were diagnosed with conditions including adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder), calcific tendinitis, rotator cuff tendinitis, shoulder osteoarthritis, and shoulder impingement syndrome. All patients underwent TECAR therapy using the modern INDIBA Activ device. The treatment was individually tailored to each patient and combined with a structured kinesitherapy program consisting of exercises aimed at improving range of motion, strengthening the shoulder musculature, and enhancing the functional capacity of the shoulder joint. Results: Treatment outcomes were evaluated using the Visual Analogue Scale for pain intensity assessment, goniometric measurements to determine shoulder range of motion, and a clinical examination performed upon completion of the rehabilitation program. The significant results are due to the individual approach in choosing the therapeutic protocol, which allows its optimal adaptation to the needs and clinical condition of each patient. Conclusion: The application of tecar therapy can significantly improve the course of rehabilitation, shorten the time required for functional rehabilitation and enable patients to return to daily activities more quickly.