INTRODUCTION: Physical agents are all of the physical elements that physiotherapists use to intervene in the body with curative intent. However, the increase in scientific publications has allowed greater knowledge to be gained on the effectiveness of certain therapeutic agents in relation to pain. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We performed a broad, systematic search of PubMed (Medline), the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) and the Centre for Reviews and Dissemination (DARE) between August 1 and November 1, 2008 with the following criteria: studies published since 2003, written in English or Spanish, and performed in humans. Only meta-analyses, systematic reviews, randomized controlled trials and clinical practice guidelines were accepted. RESULTS: Of the 2,477 studies that could potentially have been included, only 30 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. CONCLUSIONS: Further investigation is needed into commonly used physical agents. Nevertheless, there is a good level of evidence to support the use of certain therapeutic agents in some painful conditions.

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