Which statement about the maturation/remodeling phase is correct?

• A. Only modalities are used, not training.
• B. All tissue remodeling is complete before any modalities are used.
• C. Modalities such as ultrasound and massage can support maturation/remodeling.
• D. No rehabilitation is needed during this phase.

Answer: (C)

In the remodeling (maturation) phase, collagen fibers gradually realign and tissue strength increases, but this is driven by controlled mechanical loading and functional use rather than passive measures alone. Rehabilitation aims to progressively challenge the healing tissue with graded exercises and functional activities to encourage fibers to align with the direction of stress and to restore usable strength and mobility. Modalities such as ultrasound and massage can support this process by improving tissue extensibility, reducing scar adhesions, and helping with pain or edema control, making them useful adjuncts rather than sole therapies. The other statements imply that remodeling is completed before any modalities are used, or that rehab isn’t needed at all, or that only modalities are used, which isn’t accurate because ongoing loading and functional rehabilitation are essential to optimize remodeling.