Modalities

Physiotherapists often refer to and utilize “modalities”.  This is our nickname for electro-physical agents that we often use to decrease pain, inflammation and muscle tone and help increase circulation to the tissue.  The modalities commonly seen in our clinics are Ultrasound (a type of sound wave that produces vibration), TENS and IFC (mild electrical current), hot packs, cold packs, muscle stimulation and acupuncture.  Although these types of treatments are useful as mentioned, they do not encompass the complete approach to rehabilitation.  We use our modalities to help control pain, inflammation and muscle spasm so that the patient can begin to move again. These modalities are used as an adjunct to an active treatment approach, rather than a primary focus of treatment.