AERO RUNNER Anti-Gravity Series
TECAR vs therapeutic ultrasound: what is the difference?
TECAR and therapeutic ultrasound are both used in physiotherapy, but they deliver different kinds of energy through different applicators. This guide explains how they differ and what to compare when you specify equipment.
The short answer
TECAR (capacitive and resistive energy transfer, CRET) uses radiofrequency electrical energy passed between an active electrode and a return plate or electrode. Therapeutic ultrasound uses mechanical sound waves at 1 MHz or 3 MHz produced by a transducer in the handpiece. The choice of modality is a clinical decision. Many clinics keep both.
Side by side
| Feature | TECAR (CRET) | Therapeutic ultrasound |
|---|---|---|
| Energy type | Radiofrequency electrical energy | Mechanical sound waves |
| Applicator | Capacitive (insulated) or resistive (non-insulated) electrodes with a return plate; hands-free kit with adhesive electrodes available | Handpiece with a transducer and coupling gel |
| Key settings | Method (capacitive or resistive), frequency, power | Frequency (1 or 3 MHz), intensity (W/cm²), continuous or pulsed, duty cycle, time |
| Example in the TRIMAX range | Globus DiaCaRe 7000: 300 to 1200 kHz in seven selectable frequencies; 350 W rated power; 7 in. touchscreen | Globus Medisound 3000: 1 and 3 MHz; 3 W/cm² (±20%); pulsed and continuous; duty cycle 10 to 100%; IP68 handpiece; 49 programmes |
Figures are the manufacturer's published specifications as listed on the TRIMAX product pages.
How TECAR is specified
Globus describes the capacitive method as using an insulated electrode for low-resistance tissue such as skin, connective tissue and the circulatory and lymphatic systems, and the resistive method as using non-insulated electrodes for high-resistance tissue such as bone, cartilage, tendons, ligaments and fascia. Electrode placement sets the path of the current. Specifications to compare: the frequencies available, rated power, whether both methods are included, the electrodes supplied, built-in protocols, real-time display of impedance and energy delivered, and whether a hands-free kit and instrument-assisted fascia tools are offered.
How therapeutic ultrasound is specified
In general, a lower ultrasound frequency (1 MHz) travels deeper than a higher one (3 MHz), which stays more superficial. Specifications to compare: the frequencies, the maximum output intensity, continuous and pulsed emission with adjustable duty cycle, handpiece size and whether it is waterproof for immersion treatment, the number of preset programmes, and mains or battery operation.
Uses as listed by the manufacturer
- Globus lists tendinitis, fracture healing, chronic and joint conditions, and contractures and muscle injuries as main indications for the Medisound 3000.
- Globus describes TECAR as having biostimulant, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, decontracting and vasodilating effects, and lists osteo-articular, tendon and ligament, muscular and myofascial, neuromuscular, lymphatic and vascular conditions.
These are the manufacturer's statements, not a comparison of effectiveness. A qualified clinician should decide which therapy suits each patient.
The Medical Device Authority register entry for the Medisound 3000 states that it is not intended for domestic use and that its use is permitted only to qualified personnel (doctors and physiotherapists).
Questions to ask a supplier
- Is each device registered with the Medical Device Authority (MDA), and under which registration number?
- Which electrodes, handpieces and accessories are included, and which are consumables?
- Can the operator create and save custom protocols?
- What warranty applies, who installs and trains your staff, and who services the unit in Malaysia?
Next step
TRIMAX supplies Globus TECAR therapy and Globus ultrasound and electrotherapy in Malaysia, with installation, training and service from Kuala Lumpur. Talk to a product specialist to arrange a demonstration.
This article is general technical information. A qualified clinician should decide whether a therapy is suitable for each patient and follow the manufacturer's instructions for use.
Common questions
Is TECAR the same as ultrasound therapy?
No. TECAR uses radiofrequency electrical energy between electrodes. Therapeutic ultrasound uses mechanical sound waves from a transducer at 1 MHz or 3 MHz.
What does capacitive versus resistive mean in TECAR?
Globus describes the capacitive method as using an insulated electrode for low-resistance tissue, and the resistive method as using non-insulated electrodes for high-resistance tissue.
What should I compare on a therapeutic ultrasound unit?
Frequencies, output intensity, continuous and pulsed modes with adjustable duty cycle, handpiece size and waterproofing, preset programmes, and power options.
Does TRIMAX supply both in Malaysia?
Yes. TRIMAX supplies Globus TECAR and Globus ultrasound and electrotherapy units, with installation, staff training, preventive maintenance and repair.
Are the Globus TECAR and ultrasound units registered with the Medical Device Authority (MDA)?
Yes. TRIMAX Healthcare Sdn. Bhd. is the authorised representative on the MDA register for TECAR therapy (Globus, registration GC2616724-170751) and ultrasound therapy (Medisound 3000, registration GB8129524-175786).