Why these are called supportive
None of these modalities are the main intervention. They're tools that can support pain modulation, tissue glide, blood flow, or proprioception — making it easier to do the work that actually drives change: progressive loading and rehab.
Laser Therapy (Photobiomodulation)
Low-level laser delivered to a target tissue. Evidence is mixed but generally positive for acute and subacute soft-tissue injury, neck pain, and tendinopathy as an adjunct. Used here in early-phase care to support tissue recovery and modulate pain.
Microcurrent Therapy
Very low-amperage electrical stimulation. Used for acute soft-tissue injuries and as a tool for pain modulation. Particularly useful in early-phase rehab where the tissue isn't ready for heavier intervention.
Functional Cupping
Cupping integrated into movement — not the static-marks-on-your-back version. Used to influence tissue glide, blood flow, and proprioceptive input while moving through specific patterns. Evidence is limited but the clinical utility for short-term symptom relief is reasonable.
IASTM (Instrument-Assisted Soft-Tissue Mobilization)
Sometimes called "scraping" or Graston-style treatment. A handheld instrument is used to apply controlled pressure to soft tissue. Evidence supports short-term improvements in range of motion and pain; long-term benefits depend on follow-up loading.
Athletic Taping
Functional taping for support, proprioceptive input, and confidence during return to sport or training. Athletic tape (rigid) for support; kinesiology tape for proprioception. The evidence for kinesiology tape is mixed — it's used where the clinical effect is clear and the patient finds it useful.
Bottom line
Each of these modalities has a place — as a supportive adjunct to manual therapy and rehab. None are used as standalone treatments. Decision is always individualized.