The Role of Therapeutic Modalities in Surgical and Nonsurgical Management of Orthopaedic Injuries

Rehabilitation professionals often use therapeutic modalities as a component of the surgical and nonsurgical management of orthopaedic injuries. Myriad therapeutic modalities, including cryotherapy, thermotherapy, ultrasonography, electrical stimulation, iontophoresis, and laser therapy, are available. Knowledge of the scientific basis of each modality and the principles of implementation for specific injuries enables musculoskeletal treatment providers to prescribe these modalities effectively. The selection of specific therapeutic modalities is based on their efficacy during a particular phase of rehabilitation. Therapeutic modalities are an adjunct to standard exercise and manual therapy techniques and should not be used in isolation.