Are the physical therapeutic modalities really safe?

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the complications of physical therapeutic modalities (PTMs) and patient satisfaction during and after physical therapy (PT) in our institution. Materials and methods: One hundred consecutive patients (64 female, 36 male), who underwent PT were enrolled in this study. A questionnaire involving demographic data, complications of PTMs and complaints of patients was applied to all patients. PTMs and patient numbers were as follows; hot pack for 86 patients, ultrasound for 69, interferential current for 56, diadynamic electrotherapy for 37, short wave diathermy for 26, whirlpool for 5 and cold pack for 2 patients. The patients' disorders were as follows respectively; 44 patients had lumbar or cervical spondylosis, 18 knee osteoarthritis, 15 soft tissue disease, 14 shoulder periarthritis, 9 cerebrovascular disease and 6 joint contractures. Results: The mean age was 51.14±13.42 years. Pain (n=4), tachycardia (n=2), bleeding (n=1) allergic reaction (n=1), hypertension (n=1) and bulla (n=1) were documented as PTMs complications. There was no statistically significant relationship between the occurrence of complications and patients' satisfaction (p>0.05). We did not find any significant relationship between the primary disorders and the complications, and PTMs and the complications (p>0.05). Conclusion: The PTMs are safe and did not raise serious complications when used by experienced physiotherapists. Patients were satisfied with their therapy as well.