1. Introduction to Modalities
Sports Medicine
Mr. Jones

2. Objectives Define therapeutic modalities
List the basic types of modalities
Explain the purposes of modalities
Explain general indications and contraindications

3. Terminology
Modalities – methods of treating injuries, using heat, cold, ultrasound or electric stimulation
Therapeutic – referring to treatment
Indications – appropriate for patient use
Contraindications – something dangerous or ill-advised for a patient

4. General Purposes of Modalities
Alter blood flow (vasoconstriction or vasodilation)
Decrease pain
Decrease muscle spasm
Decrease swelling
Alter metabolism

5. Indications for Using Modalities
Acute injuries
Acute or chronic pain
Swelling
Chronic inflammation
Muscle spasm
Joint tightness

6. Contraindications for Using Modalities
Open wounds
Infections
Cold-related allergies
Areas of sensory or circulatory deficits
Open growth plates
Over organs (heart, eyes, etc.)
Possible fractures

7. Cryotherapy
Cold application causes vasoconstriction and decreased vascular permeability.
Decreases inflammation, pain, circulation, muscle spasms, etc.
Examples:
Ice bags and cold packs
Controlled compression therapy units (Game Ready)
Ice massage
Cold immersion

8. Thermotherapy
Heat application causes vasodilation and increased blood flow to promote healing.
Removes waste products and increases cellular metabolism
Increases the extensibility of connective tissue
Examples:
Moist heat pack
Warm whirlpool
Paraffin bath
Therapeutic ultrasound
Shortwave diathermy

9. Electrotherapy Various types Examples: Decrease pain
Decrease muscle tightness
Increase blood flow
Neuromuscular re-education
Examples:
Premod
Interferential
Russian
TENS
H-wave
Combo

10. Manual Therapies Massage/Soft tissue mobilization Myofascial release
Joint mobilization
Traction
Active release therapy
Tool assisted massage
Cupping
Dry needling

11. Medications Prescription vs. OTC NSAID’s Analgesics Muscle Relaxers
Ibuprofen (Advil), naproxen sodium (Aleve), aspirin (Bayer)
Celebrex, Voltaren, Mobic, Indocin
Analgesics
Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
Vicodin, Oxycotin, Xanax, etc.
Muscle Relaxers