Abstract
This project investigates the application of high-frequency radio waves (RF) used to generate heat in the muscular tissues. Electrodes and other instruments are used to transmit electric current to the surface structures, thereby increasing blood flow and helps speeding up the healing process. Diathermy is a deep tissue heat treatment used to reduce pain, resolve inflammation, and promote healing. It is achieved by using ultrasound, short-wave radio frequency, and microwave energy; the three methods differing mainly for their penetration capability. Diathermy is used as a routine part of physical heat treatment and is also used as an adjuvant therapy in cancer treatment. In the latter case, the heat expands the blood vessels, making the flow of subsequent radiation more effective. Specifically, in this project, the focus is to develop an efficient reflector device to focus the Radio Frequency (RF) energy into the sample material surface area. Typically, measurements will be carried out to study the heating patterns. The purpose of the reflector is to enhance performance of electromagnetic heat sampling from various distances on the subject study. The application of the reflector is to reduce heat leakage from the instrument into a concentrated surface area. The instrument used with the reflector to perform the experiment is to prevent a direct contact with the sampling material surface area to avoid any burning.