TECAR therapy warms the tissues from the inside using radiofrequency energy. You feel a pleasant, deep warmth that reaches further than a heat lamp or a hot compress. The warmth increases blood circulation in the area, relaxes the muscles and reduces pain. That is why TECAR therapy (also written Tecar) is used for back, joint and tendon pain and for recovery after injury.
What to expect
You lie comfortably on the treatment table, and a metal plate is placed under your back or in your hand. Kaloyan spreads a special cream on the area and moves an electrode over the skin, massaging with it. The device has two modes. One works more in the muscles and soft tissues, and the other reaches deeper, to the tendons, joints and bones. Kaloyan switches between them depending on the problem.
The warmth is pleasant and adjustable. If it feels too warm, say so and Kaloyan will lower the power. For a fresh injury he works at low power, with almost no heating. The treatment doesn’t hurt, and afterwards you can usually carry on with your day straight away.
TECAR therapy is often combined with manual therapy and exercises in the same session. Warmed tissues move more easily. You usually need 4–8 sessions, 2–3 a week. Many patients feel relief after the first few.
What it helps with
- Lower back and neck pain, including pain from a herniated disc
- Tight, sore muscles and muscle strains
- Inflamed tendons (tendonitis): Achilles tendon, tennis elbow, knee
- A sprained ankle or knee
- Joint pain and stiffness from wear (osteoarthritis)
- Frozen shoulder and shoulder pain
- Recovery after fractures and operations, once the bone has healed
Who it’s for
- You have had pain for weeks that won’t go away and want to speed up your recovery.
- You play sport and have a muscle injury or a tendon problem.
- Your joint is stiff and hard to get moving.
- You are recovering from an injury and want to combine a device treatment with exercises.
When it isn’t suitable
- You have a pacemaker or another implanted electronic device.
- You are pregnant.
- You have cancer, especially in the treatment area.
- You have a blood clot (thrombosis) or an inflamed vein in the area.
- You have a fever, an infection, a wound or reduced skin sensation in the area.
- If you have a metal implant (plate, screws, prosthesis) in the area, tell Kaloyan before the treatment.
