Therapeutic Modalities

Cryotherapy-Ice packs used to reduce inflammatory processes already active either before or after a treatment to decrease swelling and pain associated with an acute injury.

Moist Heat-Clay infused mats in kept at 160-165 degree Hydrocollators are used to increase blood flow and decrease stiffness prior to treatment and allow a less forceful, more comfortable adjustment to an otherwise stiff or restricted area.  Those with arthritis or degenerative joint disease often benefit most from this, but can also be very relaxing for those with simple muscular tension.

Interferential-A mid-frequency electrical signal to treat muscular spasms and sprains. The current produces a massaging effect over the affected area at periodic intervals, and this stimulates the secretion of endorphins the body’s natural pain relievers, thus relaxing strained muscles and promoting soft-tissue healing. Its use is contraindicated if the affected area has wounds, cuts or infections.

Low Volt-for the treatment of muscular injuries and for the re-education of paralyzed/spastic muscles, to prevent atrophy in affected muscles and improving muscle tone and blood circulation. Also helpful in immediate post-surgical stimulation of calf muscles to prevent venous thrombosis.

Russian Stim-Intended for strengthening muscles, increasing muscle size, improving muscular endurance, and accelerating muscle recovery. Uses high frequency, sinusoidal stimulation waveforms. Popularized in the 1970s when Russian researchers used EMS to enhance the training of Olympic athletes.

Therapeutic Ultrasound-Sound waves generated by a transducer head (which looks a bit like a microphone) to penetrate soft tissues.  The sound waves cause microscopic vibrations in deep tissue molecules, increasing heat and friction. The warming effect encourages healing in soft tissues by increasing metabolism at the cellular level.

Guasha-often used to treat muscle pain and tension as well as break down scar tissue and connective tissue, improving movement in the joints. Used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to move energy, known as qi or chi, around the body.

Intersegmental Traction-Intersegmental traction tables gently help reestablish the normal ranges of the body’s spine. Intersegmental traction tables also help facilitate muscle relaxation and reduce muscle spasms. It has been shown that use of an intersegmental traction table greatly accelerates recovery progress from a back injury.  The intersegmental table operates by a dual roller moving up and down the muscles on either side of the spine.  The rolling contact is constant and works electronically.  Intersegmental traction tables are very relaxing and make for a great healing tool.