diathermy

the use of high - frequency non-lethal electric currents to produce heat in a part of the body. The heat generated increases BLOOD flow and is used for the relief of deep - seated pain such as NEURITIS , SCIATICA and particularly painful rheumatic conditions. The use of currents in this way can be adapted to cauterize tissues and small blood vessels (the latter because the blood coagulates on contact with the heated element).