Physiotherapy modalities are offered as a complementary therapy to the manual therapies performed.
Interferential Current
- Also referred to as “muscle stim” or “electric stim”, this form of therapy is used to reduce both acute and chronic pain, and to speed tissue healing. There is some evidence that suggests that electrical stimulation may block the transmission of pain signals along nerves. Additionally, electrical stimulation has been shown to promote the release of endorphins, which are natural pain killers produced by the body. Interferential current is painless and patients commonly report a “tingling” or “pins and needles” type of sensation when it is applied.
Ultrasound
- tendon and ligament injuries
- muscle and soft tissue injuries
- scar tissue
- arthritis and bursitis
- Not to be confused with diagnostic ultrasound, which is commonly used in prenatal screening, this is a therapeutic procedure that uses sound waves to treat:
Ultrasound is useful for resolving chronic inflammatory conditions, and has a micro-massage effect that enhances fluid exchange to promote tissue healing. Additionally, ultrasound has been shown to improve local blood supply and stimulate reconstructive cells, providing rapid, initial wound strength. Ultrasound also promotes the formation of scar tissue that is as similar as possible to the parent tissue. Ultrasound is a painless procedure and most often the patient cannot perceive any sensation except slight warmth when it is applied.
Ice Therapy
- Ice therapy can provide significant pain relief for many types of pain. It is most effective if it is applied soon after the injury occurs. The cold makes the blood vessels in the tissue contract, reducing circulation and thereby reducing the inflammation and swelling that occurs after an injury. Ice also can act like a local anesthetic, numbing the sore tissues. Additionally, ice slows nerve impulses to the area where it is applied, which interrupts the pain/spasm reaction between the nerves and muscles.
Moist Heat
- Moist heat can aid the healing process by increasing circulation to the affected area and decreasing muscle spasm. Heat is most effective in treating conditions that are chronic in nature – it is not recommended to use heat within the first 48 hours of an injury or if any signs of swelling or inflammation are present. The desired effect from heat is deep penetration to the muscles, providing relaxation and pain relief and promotion of tissue healing through increased blood circulation.
Traction
- This procedure can be performed either manually (by the doctor’s hands) or mechanically (with the use of a table). It is commonly utilized to reduce pressure on the discs of the neck or lower back. With traction, the discs are decompressed, thereby relieving nerve pain, tissue inflammation and pressure cause by herniated or bulging discs. This is a painless procedure that patients most often find very comfortable and pleasant.