What is a common characteristic of diathermy units?

Diathermy units are known for their ability to generate heat in body tissues through high-frequency electromagnetic waves, which can provide therapeutic benefits, particularly in pain management and muscle relaxation. One of the common characteristics of these devices is that they can indeed cause burns if not monitored properly.

The heat generated during diathermy treatments is effective in increasing blood flow and alleviating pain; however, if the intensity is too high or if the treatment is conducted for too long without proper oversight, it can lead to tissue overheating and burns. This highlights the importance of careful monitoring of both the parameters of the treatment and the patient's response during the procedure. Ensuring safe application is critical to maximizing therapeutic effects while minimizing potential risks to the patient.

This contrasts with other choices, which do not accurately represent the characteristics of diathermy units. For instance, while diathermy can be administered at varying intensities, they are not restricted to low settings and can be effective for pain relief rather than the opposite. Furthermore, diathermy is not limited to ultrasound; it encompasses various modality forms such as shortwave and microwave diathermy, distinguishing it from treatment methods that solely rely on ultrasound.