Which of the following is a true composite statement about diathermy biophysical effects?

• A. Increase blood flow, Activation of fibroblasts, Increase macrophage activity
• B. Increase blood flow only
• C. Activation of fibroblasts only
• D. Increase macrophage activity only

Answer: (A)

Diathermy heating triggers multiple healing responses in tissue. When tissue is warmed, blood vessels dilate, increasing blood flow and delivering more oxygen and nutrients to the area while helping remove waste. Heat also stimulates fibroblasts to produce collagen, which supports tissue repair and remodeling. Additionally, the warmer environment enhances macrophage activity, aiding debris clearance and supporting the inflammatory-to-healing transition. Because diathermy can produce all of these effects, the statement that includes increases in blood flow, activation of fibroblasts, and increased macrophage activity best reflects its biophysical effects.