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Shortwave Diathermy Enhances Ankle Dorsiflexion More Than Stretching Alone
Full Title
Pulsed Shortwave Diathermy and Prolonged Long-Duration Stretching Increase Dorsiflexion Range of Motion More Than Identical Stretching Without Diathermy
Summary
This study investigated the effects of pulsed shortwave diathermy (PSWD) combined with stretching on ankle dorsiflexion range of motion (ROM). Forty-four college students were divided into four groups: control, stretching alone, diathermy plus stretching, and diathermy plus stretching followed by ice. Over 14 sessions spanning three weeks, participants receiving diathermy and stretching demonstrated significantly greater ROM improvements compared to those stretching alone. The benefits persisted even six days after treatment concluded, indicating that PSWD enhances the long-term effects of stretching on flexibility.