Diathermize

/ˌdaɪ.əˈθɜr.maɪz/ verb

Definition

To treat (tissue or a patient) with diathermy; to apply therapeutic heat using electrical current or electromagnetic radiation.

Etymology

From Greek 'dia-' (through) + 'thermē' (heat) + '-ize' (verb suffix meaning to treat or cause to become), developed in medical practice during the early 20th century.

Kelly Says

When doctors diathermize an injured shoulder, they're essentially creating an internal heat source that causes the blood vessels to dilate and bring more healing nutrients to the damaged tissue—it's controlled inflammation as medicine.

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