Treatment Techniques & Modalities.
A closer look at the hands-on and technology-based techniques we use to help you recover.
From manual techniques like dry needling and cupping to technology-based options like shockwave and electrotherapy, we match the right combination of treatments to your specific condition and goals.
Our physiotherapists draw on a wide range of evidence-based treatment techniques, selected and combined based on your specific condition and goals. Jump to any technique below to learn more.
IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilisation)
IASTM uses specialised tools to detect and treat areas of soft tissue restriction, helping to break down scar tissue and improve mobility.
Commonly used for: Chronic soft tissue restrictions, scar tissue, muscle tightness
Dry Needling
Fine needles are inserted into trigger points within muscle tissue to reduce tension, ease pain, and improve movement.
Commonly used for: Muscle trigger points, tension headaches, chronic muscle tightness
Cupping
Cupping uses suction to lift soft tissue, improving local blood flow and helping to release tight, restricted muscles.
Commonly used for: Muscle tightness, myofascial restriction, general recovery
Mulligan Mobilisation
The Mulligan Concept combines passive joint mobilisation with active movement, aiming to restore pain-free movement immediately.
Commonly used for: Joint stiffness, restricted range of motion, post-surgical rehabilitation
Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy uses electrical currents to reduce pain, ease muscle tension, or stimulate muscle activation as part of a broader treatment plan.
Commonly used for: Pain relief, muscle re-education, post-injury recovery
Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training
BFR uses a specialised cuff to partially restrict blood flow during low-load exercise, allowing strength gains without heavy loading — useful during early-stage rehabilitation.
Commonly used for: Post-surgical rehab, situations where heavy loading isn't yet appropriate
Dynamometer Testing
A dynamometer objectively measures grip or muscle strength, giving us a precise baseline to track your progress over time.
Commonly used for: Objective strength tracking, return-to-work and return-to-sport clearance
Shockwave Therapy
Shockwave uses acoustic sound waves to accelerate healing in chronic tendon and soft tissue conditions. See our full Shockwave Therapy page for details.
Low Level Laser Therapy (LLLT)
LLLT uses low-intensity light to reduce inflammation and support tissue healing at a cellular level.
Commonly used for: Soft tissue injuries, inflammation, wound healing support
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
TENS delivers a gentle electrical current through the skin to help reduce the sensation of pain.
Commonly used for: Acute and chronic pain management
Interferential Therapy
Interferential therapy uses crossing electrical currents to reach deeper tissue than standard TENS, helping to manage pain and reduce swelling.
Commonly used for: Deeper musculoskeletal pain, swelling management
Treatment Modalities: Common Questions
How do you decide which technique to use?
Your physiotherapist selects techniques based on your specific condition, assessment findings, and treatment goals — often combining several approaches.
Are these treatments painful?
Most techniques cause minimal discomfort, and your physiotherapist will always explain what to expect and adjust based on your comfort.
Will I need more than one technique?
Often, yes — combining techniques such as manual therapy with exercise typically produces better outcomes than any single technique alone.
Are these techniques suitable for everyone?
Most techniques are broadly suitable, but your physiotherapist will screen for any contraindications specific to your health history before treatment.
Experience Evidence-Based Treatment
Book an assessment at Moov Physio Capalaba and get a plan matched to your condition.