Pulsed, Non-Thermal, High Frequency Electromagnetic Energy (Diapulse) (Trade Name) in the Treatment of Grade I and II Ankle Sprains

Abstract : Acutely sprained ankles are a common injury among active duty soldiers and are a significant source of morbidity with respect to lost training days. Peri-articular edema limits motion, causes pain, prevents wearing of normal foot wear, and may exacerbate tissue damage. Other investigators have reported on the use of pulsed high frequency (non-thermal) electromagnetic energy (Diapulse) to reduce edema. We enrolled 50 patients with Grades I and II sprained ankles into a randomized, prospective, double-blind study and determined that one Diapulse treatment reduced edema in acutely injured ankles significantly better than placebo treatment. In light of treatment simplicity and safety, Diapulse therapy may prove to be more effective than current methods for reducing edema in acutely sprained ankles or other traumatic injuries.