Modalities

What are therapeutic modalities?

The term therapeutic modalities refers to the various procedures that relieve musculoskeletal pain and promote healing. These modalities are commonly used by physical therapists and sports medicine specialists to help people achieve their athletic and/or recovery goals.

The Natural Health Sports Therapy team specializes in noninvasive modalities. These procedures use the hands and other tools to manipulate the skin, muscles, and surrounding tissues, increasing circulation and promoting well-being.

What are examples of therapeutic modalities?

The Natural Health Sports Therapy team provides several therapeutic modalities, including:

Manual therapy

Manual therapy (or massage therapy) uses the hands or tools to apply varying pressure to the muscles, skin, and underlying tissues. Kneading and rubbing the muscles and skin increases circulation to the treatment site, relieves pain, and promotes healing.

Trigger point therapy

Trigger point therapy uses massage, dry needling, or trigger point injections to break up tight knots of muscle called trigger points. This loosens the muscle tissue, increases blood flow to the area, and relieves pain.

Joint mobilization

The team might prescribe joint mobilization if arthritis or a sports injury causes stiff or painful joints. During joint mobilization, your physical therapist applies targeted pressure to a specific joint, relieving pain and improving its range of motion.

Gait training

Gait training is a therapeutic modality that improves how you walk (your gait). It effectively improves posture, reduces your risk of falls, and builds muscle memory. Gait training can improve your balance and coordination and treat pain caused by conditions like bow legs.

Hot and cold therapy

Hot and cold therapy uses heating pads, ice packs, and cold lasers to increase circulation, reduce swelling, and relieve pain. It’s a safe, noninvasive treatment for various musculoskeletal problems, including arthritis, sports injuries, and muscle spasms.

Which therapeutic modality will benefit me?

The Natural Health Sports Therapy team tailors therapeutic modalities to each person’s symptoms and needs. After reviewing your medical records, discussing your symptoms, and completing a physical exam, your provider recommends personalized treatment.

How long does it take for therapeutic modalities to work?

The time it takes for a therapeutic modality to work will depend on the problem treated and how severe your symptoms are. Some people experience significant relief after just one appointment; for others, it takes longer. Follow your therapist’s instructions and attend each of your scheduled checkups.

Call Natural Health Sports Therapy today to schedule a therapeutic modality appointment, or book your appointment online.