Book excerpt: This book provides theoretically based but practically oriented guide to the use of therapeutic modalities for students in physical therapy programs. It is intended for use in courses where various clinically oriented techniques and methods are presented. The second edition addresses a wide range of modalities, from electrical to thermal to manual to light (laser) therapy. Each chapter discusses the physiological basis for use, clinical applications, specific techniques of application through the use of related laboratory activities, and relevant individual case studies. The book is rounded out with pedagogical aids, including objectives, glossary of key terms, references, and appendices containing trigger points in the body and a list of manufactures of modality equipment.