Adjunctive Therapies
In German physiotherapy, in addition to primary therapies (e.g. manual therapy, lymphatic drainage), so-called adjunctive therapies are used. These include, among others:
Heat therapy (e.g. fango packs, heat packs)
Cold therapy (e.g. ice packs, cold compresses, cooling cuffs)
Electrotherapy (e.g. TENS, muscle stimulation)
What is the goal of adjunctive therapies?
Depending on the prescription and treatment guidelines, they are used in addition to the main physiotherapy interventions and are considered forms of physical therapy modalities.
In physiotherapy, adjunctive therapies act as “supporters in the background” – they enhance the effect of active treatment but do not replace movement or exercise.
Who are adjunctive therapies for?
In studies, they usually show small to moderate effects, especially on short-term pain reduction and improved mobility – the best and most lasting results occur in combination with active therapies (exercise, training, education).
Commonly used for:
1
2
3
Typical treatment session duration:
10 - 20 minutes
