Modality
Definition
Modalities are often regulated separately from manual therapy and exercise, and some states list permitted modalities by name.
Topics that use it
- Electrical stimulationElectrical current applied through the skin for pain relief or muscle activation.
- Therapeutic ultrasoundSound waves applied to tissue as a treatment, distinct from diagnostic ultrasound imaging.
- Aquatic therapyTherapeutic exercise and rehabilitation carried out in a pool or other water environment.
- TractionA pulling force applied along the spine or a limb, by hand or with a device.
- Photobiomodulation (laser therapy)Red or near-infrared light from a laser or LED, applied to tissue without heating or cutting it.
- Shockwave therapyShort, high-pressure sound pulses delivered through the skin to tendon, fascia or bone.
- Topical and administered medicationsApplying or giving medications prescribed by someone else, such as anti-inflammatory gels, iontophoresis or emergency epinephrine.
Related terms
Definitions here are general. They do not say what any profession may do in any state; that is set by each state’s law. Back to the full glossary