Portland Therapeutic Modalities 

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive therapy aimed at managing both acute and chronic pain. By delivering low-voltage electrical current through electrodes placed on the skin, TENS helps to disrupt pain signals and stimulate the release of endorphins, the body's natural painkillers.

What to expect at your appointment: During your TENS therapy session, electrodes will be placed on your skin at targeted areas. You will feel a mild tingling sensation as the low-voltage electrical current is applied. Your therapist will adjust the settings to ensure comfort and effectiveness.

Cryotherapy, commonly referred to as ice therapy, involves the application of cold treatments to reduce inflammation, numb pain, and decrease muscle spasms. This modality is particularly beneficial for acute injuries and post-surgical recovery.

What to expect at your appointment: At your cryotherapy appointment, cold packs or ice will be applied to the affected areas for a specified duration. You may experience initial coldness followed by a numbing effect, which helps reduce inflammation and pain.

Heat therapy, or the use of hot packs, is designed to increase blood flow, relax muscles, and alleviate chronic pain. This modality is especially useful for conditions like muscle stiffness, arthritis, and long-standing injuries.

What to expect at your appointment: During your heat therapy session, hot packs will be applied to the affected regions, promoting relaxation and increased blood flow. You will feel a soothing warmth that helps alleviate discomfort and improve mobility.

Therapeutic ultrasound is a technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to penetrate deep into tissues, promoting increased blood flow, reducing inflammation, and facilitating tissue repair. At 1st Health Inc., we incorporate ultrasound therapy into treatment plans for injuries such as sprains, strains, and tendonitis.

What to expect at your appointment: During your ultrasound therapy session, a gel will be applied to the skin to enhance sound wave transmission. A small device will then be used to deliver high-frequency sound waves to the targeted areas, helping to reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Kinesiology taping, or K-taping, involves the application of specially designed tape to support muscles and joints without restricting movement. This modality helps to alleviate pain, reduce swelling, and improve lymphatic drainage.

What to expect at your appointment: At your K-taping session, your therapist will apply kinesiology tape to the specific areas in need of support. The tape will be tailored to your body's contours, providing targeted relief and support without limiting your range of motion.