Passive Treatment Modalities
Our therapists offer a range of treatments designed to relieve pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall well-being. Among these treatments are passive modalities, therapies administered by a healthcare provider that requires no active participation from the patient. Below are some commonly used passive modalities in physical therapy.
Moist Heat
Moist heat therapy, also known as thermotherapy, involves the application of warm, damp cloths or hydrocollator packs to the affected area. This modality helps to relax muscles, increase blood flow, and alleviate pain.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to penetrate tissues, promoting healing and reducing inflammation. It is often used for tendonitis, bursitis, and muscle strains.
Iontophoresis
Iontophoresis is a technique that uses electrical currents to deliver medication through the skin. It is commonly used to treat conditions like plantar fasciitis and hyperhidrosis.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy involves the application of cold packs or ice to reduce inflammation and numb the affected area. It is effective for acute injuries and post-surgical recovery.
Vasocompression Therapy
This modality uses inflatable garments to apply pressure to the limbs, improving blood flow and reducing swelling. It is often used for patients with lymphedema or venous insufficiency.
Paraffin Bath
A paraffin bath involves dipping the affected area into a warm, wax-like substance. This helps to moisturize the skin and provide relief from conditions like arthritis and fibromyalgia.
Deep Tissue Laser
Deep tissue laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to penetrate tissues and accelerate the healing process. It is effective for treating chronic pain conditions and soft tissue injuries.
Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation
This modality uses electrical currents to stimulate muscle contractions, improving muscle strength and function. It is often used in rehabilitation programs following surgery or injury.
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
TENS is similar to TNS but is specifically designed to block the transmission of pain signals to the brain. It is commonly used for conditions like chronic back pain and arthritis.
Phonophoresis
Phonophoresis is similar to iontophoresis but uses ultrasound waves instead of electrical currents to deliver medication through the skin. It is often used for localized pain relief.
Infrared Therapy
Infrared therapy uses wavelengths of light longer than visible light to penetrate tissues. This can help to improve circulation, relieve pain, and promote healing.
Microcurrent Electrical Neuromuscular Stimulation (MENS)
MENS uses extremely low-level electrical currents to treat pain and stimulate healing at the cellular level. It is often used for treating soft tissue injuries and chronic pain conditions.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)
PEMF uses electromagnetic fields to improve circulation, reduce inflammation, and accelerate healing. It is often used for conditions like osteoarthritis and post-surgical recovery.
