Physical Modalities
The following is meant only to be a brief description of some of the more commonly used modalities by our physical therapists. When used skillfully by properly trained individuals, the physical modalities are an integral component in helping to speed healing rates, provide patient comfort, and control inflammation/pain.
Heat
Heating superficial and deep (3-5cm) tissue has been used for centuries in an effort to relax stiff muscles and joints, reduce painful muscle spasms, prepare tissue for exercise, and increase blood flow helping to facilitate tissue healing. Moist hot packs maintained at approximately 165 degrees, paraffin wax, and continuous wave ultrasounds are the preferred heating agents of physical therapists.
Paraffin Wax
Paraffin wax with its low melting point is most commonly used as a heating agent for the distal extremities (hands and feet). repeated dipping builds up a layer of penetrating heat which can last for 10-20 minutes, helping to prepare the tissue for exercise.
Ultrasound
Therapeutic ultrasound is a physical modality which provides both heating and mechanical stimulation within tissues. Continuous-wave ultrasound can effectively elevate tissue temperature to depths of 3 to 5 cm or more, helping to increase tissue extensibility and alter blood flow. Pulsed ultrasound has also been shown to improve blood flow to superficial tissue through non thermal means.
Muscle Stimulation
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) is used by the physical therapist to enhance, supplement, or re-enforce a muscle contraction. This modality uses low frequency electrical stimulation applied through adhesive pads. When used properly, EMS is a valuable mode to improve joint mobility, break down adhesions, and decrease muscle spasm, post injury or post surgically.
Transcutaneous Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS is an effective way to temporarily reduce pain. When a low voltage, electrical current of varying frequency is applied to the skin over a painful body part, this device is able to inhibit the perception of pain by the brain. TENS can be used in both acute and chronic conditions, however, it should be noted that application of TENS provides no physiologic healing to injured tissue.
Interferential Current (IFC)
IFC is another form of TENS used particularly for pain relief which can provide deeper penetration and comfort, while helping to reduce local inflammation.
Cryotherapy
The use of cold applications is used to treat acute inflammatory conditions such as sprains and strains. Cryotherapy minimizes the edema and hemorrhage associated with injury, helping to reduce pain. The use of cold also can help reduce muscle spasm and joint soreness.
Decompression
The Dynatron DX1 Decompression System has set a new standard in the treatment of low back pain, proven to relieve the pressure on structures that may be causing low back pain, including herniated discs, protruding discs, degenerative disc disease, posterior facet syndrome, and sciatica. This gentle traction based treatment is a clinically proven, non-surgical option for those who suffer from lower back pain.
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
Low Level Laser Therapy is one of the latest pre-treatment tissue modalities available today. Its ability to deliver non-thermal, low-level red and near infrared waves of light to injured tissue has been shown to improve cell metabolism and blood circulation, expedite soft tissue healing, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. LLLT can be used on virtually any musculoskeletal disorder including knee sprains, hamstring strains, carpal tunnel, plantar fasciitis, and rotator cuff tendonitis with tremendous results.