National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) Practice Test

Which adjunctive therapy is most appropriate for management of a subacute grade II strain/sprain of the knee?

1. Cold therapy

2. Heat therapy

3. Massage therapy

4. Electrotherapy

The correct answer is: Electrotherapy

In the context of managing a subacute grade II strain/sprain of the knee, electrotherapy is considered the most appropriate adjunctive therapy due to its multifaceted benefits in promoting healing and reducing pain. Electrotherapy, which includes modalities such as electrical stimulation, can help in reducing inflammation, alleviating pain, and accelerating the recovery process by increasing circulation to the affected area. This is particularly effective in the subacute phase when the body is transitioning from the acute inflammatory response to tissue repair and remodeling. In the subacute phase, the tissues are still vulnerable, and gentle stimulation of the tissue can enhance the mobilization of nutrients and the removal of waste products through improved blood flow. Additionally, electrotherapy can assist in muscle re-education and strength rebuilding, which is vital for regaining function in the knee joint after an injury. While cold therapy is often used in the acute phase to minimize swelling, and heat therapy can be beneficial for promoting relaxation and circulation, they may not provide the comprehensive reparative advantages that electrotherapy offers during the subacute phase. Massage therapy, while useful in relieving muscle tension and promoting relaxation, may not directly address the specific healing mechanisms required for a strain/sprain injury at this stage. Therefore, electrotherapy stands out