Physical Therapy with Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) radiofrequency therapy for multimodal care of Hypersensitivity Pneumonitis: A case report.

Introduction: Hypersensitivity pneumonitis (HP) is an exposure-related interstitial lung disease that may progress to pulmonary fibrosis, resulting in impaired gas exchange, dyspnea, and reduced functional capacity. Pulmonary rehabilitation is an established supportive intervention in interstitial lung disease; however, evidence for adjunct biophysical modalities such as Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive (TECAR) radiofrequency therapy in HP is lacking. Methods: A 61-year-old female with hypersensitivity pneumonitis from domestic mold exposure completed an 8-week rehabilitation program (11 sessions) incorporating Transfer of Energy Capacitive and Resistive therapy, manual therapy, and breathing-based exercise. Each 30-45min. session applied capacitive and resistive energy transfer to thoracic structures to promote tissue mobility and respiratory efficiency. Results: Post-intervention pulmonary function tests showed increases in forced vital capacity (FVC +5%), total lung capacity (TLC +12%), diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO +22%), and residual volume (RV +39%). The patient reported reduced dyspnea, improved walking tolerance from <5 to >20 minutes, and independence in stair climbing and balance tasks. No adverse effects occurred. Observed pulmonary function changes were interpreted cautiously given known biological and technical variability, particularly for diffusion and lung volume measures. Conclusions: This case demonstrates the feasibility of integrating TECAR therapy within a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program for fibrotic hypersensitivity pneumonitis, with concurrent functional gains and selected pulmonary function improvements. Findings are hypothesis-generating and cannot be attributed specifically to TECAR therapy. Controlled studies are needed to evaluate efficacy, mechanisms, and clinical relevance of TECAR-assisted rehabilitation in HP and other interstitial lung diseases.