Introduction

Electrophysical Agents (EAs) (no electrical energy modalities) such as extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT), therapeutic ultrasound (TUS), pulsed or continuous Shortwave Diathermy (SWD), Magnet Therapy (MT), and phototherapy (Low-Level Laser Therapy – LLLT and High-Intensity Laser Therapy – HILT) are one of the most popular recommended physical therapy modalities for the management of musculoskeletal and orthopedics injuries. EAs are called passive physical therapy modalities. The term ‘passive modality’ or ‘passive intervention’ has gained some popularity in the last few years. There have been some published papers from North America (Canada and the USA), Australia, the UK, and others who have used this term a lot – in a negative way. A passive physical modality or passive intervention is defined as a physical treatment involving a device that does not require active participation by the patient [1]. More specifically, the therapist administers the treatment directly to the patient and the patient is not actively participating in the exercise or the movement.

However, EAs are not the only passive physical therapy modalities. Passive physical therapy modalities are also the following:

1. Joint mobilizations and manipulations
2. Soft tissue mobilizations
3. Heat and cold therapy
4. Electrotherapy modalities
5. Hydrotherapy
6. Acupuncture / dry needling
7. Continuous passive motion
8. Passive exercise therapy
9. Orthotics (bracing) and taping