What modalities are used in the repair phase?

• A. Cryotherapy only.
• B. Cryotherapy and/or thermotherapy, electrical stimulation.
• C. Electrical stimulation alone.
• D. Thermotherapy alone.

Answer: (B)

In the repair phase, the goal is to support tissue healing while managing pain and maintaining or gradually restoring function. Modalities are chosen to promote healing processes, control pain, and improve tissue extensibility and circulation as the tissue moves from the inflammatory response toward stronger, more functional tissue.

Cryotherapy can help reduce pain and edema that may still be present as repair begins, which helps with patient comfort and promotes early movement. Thermotherapy increases blood flow, aids collagen realignment, and can improve tissue elasticity and ROM, supporting the ongoing repair and remodeling of tissue. Electrical stimulation is used to stimulate healing processes, support muscle activation, and assist with reducing swelling when appropriate.

Because the repair phase often requires a combination of strategies tailored to the patient’s status—reducing pain and swelling while actively promoting tissue healing and function—the option that includes cryotherapy and/or thermotherapy along with electrical stimulation best reflects typical practice. The other choices limit modality use to a single approach, which doesn’t align with the multifaceted goals of the repair phase.