Introduction to physical agents

Question 1

a method of application of energy and materials used on a patient as part of a therapeutic intervention when appropriate. AKA modality

Answer 1

physical agent

Question 2

diathermy, lamps, light therapies are ______ modalities.

Answer 2

electromagnetic energy modalities

Question 3

thermotherapy, and cryotherapy are ______ modalities

Answer 3

thermal energy modalities

Question 4

e-stim, bio feedback, iontophoresis are _____ modalities.

Answer 4

electrical energy modalities

Question 5

ultrasound, and extracorporeal shockwave therapy are ____ modalities

Answer 5

sound energy modalities

Question 6

compression, traction, massage, vibration are _____ modalities

Answer 6

mechanical energy

Question 7

modalities produce a therapeutic effect by addressing or producing a change in (6):

Answer 7

• pain
• inflammation/swelling
• muscle tone
• ROM restrictions
• strength deficits
• healing

Question 8

How does the effect of pain control occur? (2)

Answer 8

• modulation of pain at the spinal cord

- stimulate endorphin release

Question 9

How does the effect of inflammation and swelling occur? (2)

Answer 9

• vasoconstriction to decrease chemical response

- increase venous return

Question 10

How does the effect of muscle tone and ROM occur? (3)

Answer 10

• increase mm relaxation and increase collagen extensibility
• alter deep tendon reflexes to increase normal movement patterns
• decrease pain and interrupt the pain-spasm cycle

Question 11

How does the effect of strength and NMR occur? (2)

Answer 11

• stimulate motor unit firing and recruitment of mm

- improve coordination and control muscle firing

Question 12

How does the effect of overall healing occur when using a modality? (3)

Answer 12

• control inflammatory response
• increase oxygenation and nutrient activity to injured tissue
• protection of tissue

Question 13

3 questions to consider before selecting and applying any therapeutic modality:

Answer 13

• Where is the patient in the healing process?
• What is the main goal(s) of treatment?
• Is the chosen modality in the POC?

Question 14

the presence of any symptom or circumstance that would prevent the application of a particular treatment under all circumstances that would otherwise be indicated

Answer 14

contraindications (red flags)

Question 15

things to consider for treatment, often guidelines or restrictions

Answer 15

precautions (yellow flags)

Question 16

ultimate goal of treatment through modalities is to:

Answer 16

improve function

Question 17

general contraindications you must always ask patient: (5)

Answer 17

• pacemaker and/or unstable cardiac condition
• history of bloodclots
• pregnancy
• malignancy/ CA history
• impaired sensation and cognition