Shortwave Diathermy Therapy in the Management of Pain and Functional Limitation in Femoral Head Avascular Necrosis: A Report of 4 Cases in a Tertiary Hospital in Nigeria

These case reports describe the therapeutic efficacy of a physiotherapy modality, the short-wave diathermy in the management of pain and functional limitation which are sequelae of avascular necrosis of the femoral head. Four patients who were primarily referred for physiotherapy by their doctors for assisted ambulation and infrared therapy were assessed and planned for Shortwave Diathermy (SWD) therapy. Two of the patients (A and B) who were compliant with their therapy had significant improvements in their conditions in terms of marked reduction in their pain (NPR score was from 7-2) and functional ability score (FAS was from C to A) while the other two patients C who did comply with and D who declined the treatment, respectively had their NPR scores still between 7 and 8 and FAS remained C, 5 months after presentation. It is concluded that SWD is effective in the management of avascular necrosis of femoral head and therefore should form a part of the holistic management plan for this condition. This is relevant, especially with the current global quests for effective, non-invasive means of achieving pain relief and optimal functional performance with little or no side effects in managing chronic diseases.