The modalities NMES, TENS, and FES belong to which category?

• A. Manual modalities
• B. Electrical modalities
• C. Mechanical modalities
• D. Light therapy modalities

Answer: (B)

Electrical stimulation modalities deliver energy as electrical current. NMES (neuromuscular electrical stimulation) applies current to nerves and muscles to produce or strengthen contractions. TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) uses current to modulate pain signaling and alter perception. FES (functional electrical stimulation) provides pulses to muscles to assist with performing functional tasks, like gait or grasp. Because the common feature is electrical energy delivered through electrodes, these modalities are categorized as electrical modalities. They are distinct from manual modalities (hands-on techniques), mechanical modalities (movement or force-based treatments), or light therapy modalities (radiant energy).