Physical Therapy Modalities

 The first phase of care is the "feel better" phase. When the body is in pain, there is decreased ranges of motion, muscle tightness, soreness, and inflammation of damaged cells. Before we can begin to make any type of positive changes to the spine, we need to allow the body to get into a state of healing and relaxation. Electric stimulation, ice and traction therapy are used in the initial phase to help pain levels to diminish. Corrective therapies including vibration, wobble chair and cervical traction help to make permanent changes to the spine once patients have less pain and increased range of motion. At this time, patients are instructed on at-home exercises and spinal orthotic administration to help correct spinal curves as well. The last phase of care is designed to maintain structural improvements that patients have achieved. This phase varies from patient to patient regarding frequency of patient visits.