Although we focus on active therapy, meaning the patient is in control of their treatment process, sometimes modalities can be helpful in managing pain and function. Some of the common modalities that we may use include kinesiotaping, electrical stimulation, ultrasound, mechanical traction, ice and heat.
- Kinesio taping: Developed here in Albuquerque, New Mexico, kinesio taping has become an effective way to improve function and athletic performance across the world. It is intended to provide a micro-stimulation to the epidermis and mimic the human touch. It
can be used for edema reduction, muscle activation, postural re-education and increased circulation - Electrical Stimulation/Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation: A 10-15 minute treatment in which electrodes are placed on the skin, and transmit an electrical impulse. The purpose of this treatment would be to temporarily decrease pain.
- Ultrasound: Use of an ultrasound with gel creates a small area of heat, deep to the skin’s surface to create a warming of the underlying tissue. This can be helpful prior to mobilization of a joint or tissue.
- Ice: A more commonly used modality for acute injuries, ice can help to decrease pain and inflammation.
- Moist Hot Pack: Application of the moist hot pack can help to decrease pain and improve blood flow. This could be used to help decrease muscle tone
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