1. A method of detecting the amount of deformation of an object using a strain gauge affixed to the object comprising the steps of: (a) transmitting a wireless RF signal to the gauge; (b) receiving the RF signal at the gauge; (c) shifting the RF frequency as a function of the deformation of the object; (d) transponding the shifted RF frequency signal to an analyzer; and (e) in the analyzer, determining a strain in the object as a function of the shift in RF frequency; wherein the steps are performed without providing power to the gauge.