What are the potential side effects of improper use of modalities in physical therapy?

The potential side effects of improper use of modalities in physical therapy include burns and skin irritation. Modalities such as heat, cold, electrical stimulation, and ultrasound are commonly employed to assist in the treatment of various conditions. However, if these modalities are not used correctly—such as applying excessive heat for too long, using inappropriate temperatures, or poorly positioning electrodes—patients may experience adverse effects.

Burns can occur when high temperatures are applied to the skin without adequate protection or monitoring. Skin irritation could result from inappropriate settings, such as too high electrical current or prolonged exposure to a cold modality without suitable precautions. This is why proper training, assessment, and monitoring are critical when applying physical therapy modalities to ensure patient safety and effectiveness.