Physical Therapy Modalities

Physical Therapy Modalities2019-01-25T22:25:33+00:00

At Excel Physical Therapy we use the latest treatment tools to assist our therapists in your recovery. These tools are used to decrease inflammation, decrease pain and promote healing. Here is a list of the modalities you may encounter during your course of treatment with us.

Therapeutic Ultrasound

Modalities

Therapeutic Ultrasound

Ultrasound is a therapeutic modality that has been used by physical therapists since the 1940s. It uses a transmission of ultrasonic waves that pass into the skin causing a vibration of local tissues. This vibration causes a deep heating in the area although no sensation of heat is usually felt by the patient. This deep heat increased local blood flow to help reduce swelling and inflammation, increase tissue relaxation and promote scar tissue breakdown. 

Electrical Stimulation (E-stim)

Modalities

E-Stim

E-stim is a therapeutic modality which uses electrical currents that pass through a set of electrodes placed directly on the skin. Depending on the stimulus setting, E-stim provides a variety of benefits, including:

  • Increased blood flow to promote healing and reduce inflammation
  • Stimulation of local nerve cells to block the transmission of pain signals
  • Muscle stimulation for neuromuscular re-education and strengthening

Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is a technique used by physical therapists to deliver anti-inflammatory medication using electrical charges to a specific location of the body. It can be effective in treating overuse and inflammatory disorders such as tendonitis, bursitis, epicondylitis and plantar fasciitis.

Vasopneumatic Compression “Game Ready”

Game_Ready

Game Ready

We use the Game Ready machine to provide our patients with cold and compression therapies. This device uses ACCEL® Technology (Active Compression and Cold Exchange Loop) to help accelerate recovery. It cycles ice cold water and air through a sleeve placed around the affected body part. This integrated cold and compression therapy helps to reduce pain and swelling, reduce muscle spasms, enhance lymphatic function and encourage oxygenated blood flow. 

Spinal traction

Spinal traction is a form of decompression therapy that relieves pressure on the spine. This type of vertebral distraction can be performed with several manual techniques. Spinal traction is indicated for treatment of herniated discs, sciatic pain, radiating nerve pain or nerve impingement, degenerative disc disease, and other conditions related to back pain.

Kinesiotape

Kinesiotape

Kinesiotape is a latex-free take that is wearable for days. Applied using specific techniques, it is designed to facilitate the body’s natural healing process while providing support and stability to muscles and joints without restricting range of motion. Kinesiotape is safe for all patient populations and successfully treats a variety of orthopedic, neuromuscular, and neurologic conditions.

Heat and Cold Therapies

Heat and Cold are two of the most common types of non-invasive and non-addictive pain relief therapies for muscle and joint pain. Hot packs can be used to promote increased blood flow, relax tight muscles, tendons and ligaments and reduce pain in the joints. Ice packs will decrease blood flow to the area and thereby decrease inflammation, swelling and pain.