Before you can begin, your physical therapist will do an evaluation. You may not think of this as a typical treatment, but it's an integral part of creating a physiotherapy plan to get to the root of the problem.

Manual therapy is a modality that physiotherapists use for many injuries. This hands-on approach refers to many things, including therapeutic massage and assisted stretching and exercise.

Physiotherapists use ultrasound for connective tissue injuries. Ultrasound uses sound waves to generate heat deep in the body, loosening up tissues so they’re better prepared for exercise or manual therapy.

Ice is best for injuries with swelling and inflammation, and constricts blood vessels, which can reduce and even prevent inflammation after a soft tissue injury.

Heat is best for injuries involving muscular spasms and tightness, and can increase mobility and decrease pain following soft tissue injuries.