Short Wave Diathermy (SWD) is a treatment that uses electromagnetic energy to produce deep heating in joints and soft tissues. Shortwave diathermy (SWD) is a modality that produces heat by converting electromagnetic energy into thermal energy. So Diathermy is a therapeutic treatment most commonly prescribed for muscle and joint conditions. It uses a high-frequency electric current to stimulate heat generation within body tissues.

Short wave diathermy uses electromagnetic radio waves to deliver heat down to 3 to 5 cm below the skin without overheating the skin and subcutaneous tissue.