Medical Subject Headings (MeSH): Physical Therapy Modalities

Physical therapy modalities refer to the various techniques and methods used by physical therapists to help patients recover from injury, illness, or surgery. These modalities can be used to reduce pain, inflammation, muscle spasms, improve range of motion, and increase strength and function. Some common physical therapy modalities include:

Manual therapy: Techniques such as massage, mobilization, and manipulation used to improve muscle and joint function.

Exercise therapy: Exercises prescribed to improve strength, endurance, flexibility, and balance.

Therapeutic ultrasound: High-frequency sound waves used to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote healing.

Electrical stimulation: The use of electrical currents to reduce pain and muscle spasms, and promote muscle function.

Heat and cold therapy: The use of heat and cold to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote healing.

Hydrotherapy: The use of water for exercise and rehabilitation.

Laser therapy: The use of low-level laser or light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to reduce pain and inflammation, and promote healing.

Physical therapists will use a combination of modalities and techniques to create an individualized treatment plan for each patient based on their specific needs and goals.