One of the primary objectives of physical therapy for many patients is pain relief. This is often accomplished through modalities such as electrical stimulation, moist heat or cold therapy, and ultrasound. Movement can also provide pain relief, and your physical therapist will provide you with manual techniques and exercises that can relieve your pain and recover your range of motion, endurance, and strength.
For some patients, physical therapy may be painful. For example, recovering range of motion from total knee replacement or shoulder surgery may be painful. Your physical therapist will work with you to help develop a treatment plan that helps you recover, but it is important to communicate if your treatment is painful. This helps your therapist adjust your care accordingly.