Running a physiotherapy clinic requires a small things supply of high-quality consumables products list to ensure patient safety, effective treatments, and smooth operations provided by us only.
From electrode pads to disinfectants, having the right supplies on hand is critical for delivering top-notch care and cure facility. This guide outlines the top 10 must-have physiotherapy consumables, why they’re essential, and tips for choosing the best options. Plus, we’ve included a downloadable monthly buying checklist to keep your clinic stocked and ready for treatment so on so for!
- Electrode Pads for TENS, IFT, or EMS Machines
What Are They?If you’ve ever had a TENS (pain-relief zaps), IFT (deep tissue therapy), or EMS (muscle-strengthening) session, you’ve probably felt those sticky pads on your skin. These electrode pads are what deliver the electrical pulses from the machine to your body, helping with pain or muscle recovery.
Why They’re a Big DealThink of these pads like tires on a car—they wear out with use. After a few sessions, they lose their stickiness, which means the therapy won’t work as well, and they might even irritate the skin. Replacing them regularly keeps treatments effective and safe, especially for folks with sensitive skin. Nobody wants a patchy session or an uncomfortable rash!
How to Choose the Right Ones
How Long They Last: Look for pads that can handle 10-20 uses to save money without skimping on quality.
Skin-Friendly: Pick hypoallergenic pads to avoid redness or itching.
Soft vs. Hard Gel: Soft gel pads mold to your body better, like a comfy hug, while hard gel pads last longer for busy clinics.
Check that the pads match your machine’s connectors (some brands are picky).
Our PickTENS 7000 Compatible Electrode Pads (double-check they fit your device).Buy on Amazon
- Ultrasound Gel
What Is It?Ultrasound gel is the gooey stuff spread on your skin during ultrasound therapy. It helps the machine’s wand send sound waves deep into your muscles to ease pain or heal tissues.
Why It’s a Must-HaveWithout gel, the ultrasound waves can’t travel properly, making the treatment less effective or even risky (like causing a slight burn). Good gel keeps sessions smooth and safe, and it’s used in almost every ultrasound treatment, so you’ll go through it fast.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Gel Types: Water-based gels are standard and gentle on skin; aloe-based ones add a soothing touch for sensitive patients.
Texture: Go for medium-thickness gel—it spreads easily but won’t drip everywhere.
Pick non-staining gels that wipe off easily to keep your clinic looking clean.
Our PickAquasonic 100 Ultrasound Transmission Gel.Buy on Amazon:
- Kinesiology Tape
What Is It?Kinesiology tape is that colorful stretchy tape you see on athletes. It supports muscles and joints, reduces swelling, and helps with pain while letting you move freely.
Why It’s a Big DealThis tape is a game-changer for patients with sprains, sore muscles, or joint issues. It stays on for days, even through showers or workouts, providing constant support. It’s like a trusty sidekick for recovery, but only if you’ve got the good stuff.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Stretchiness: Look for tape with 150-180% stretch to balance support and flexibility.
Waterproof: Make sure it’s water-resistant for patients who sweat or swim.
Best Brands: KT Tape or Theraband work for most patients; RockTape is great for hardcore athletes.
Get latex-free tape for folks with allergies.
Our PickKT Tape Pro, Waterproof.Buy on Amazon:
- Disposable Bed Sheets or Towels
What Are They?These are the sheets or towels you lie on during a session. They cover the treatment table to keep things clean and comfy.
Why They’re a Must-HaveNobody wants to lie on a table where the last patient was sweating or getting gel smeared around. Disposable sheets stop germs from spreading and save you the hassle of washing reusable ones, which can hold onto bacteria if not cleaned properly.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Germ Protection: Pick non-woven, water-resistant sheets to block fluids and germs.
Disposable vs. Reusable: Disposable is better for busy clinics; reusable works for smaller ones if you have a good washing system.
Look for strong, tear-resistant sheets that won’t rip mid-session.
Our PickMedline Disposable Non-Woven Bed Sheets.Buy on Amazon:
- Latex or Nitrile Gloves
What Are They?Gloves are worn by therapists during treatments, especially when dealing with wounds, gels, or sensitive skin.
Why They’re a Big DealGloves keep things clean and safe for both the patient and the therapist. They prevent germs from spreading and protect against things like lotions or blood. Nitrile gloves are a go-to for people allergic to latex.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Powdered vs. Powder-Free: Powder-free gloves are less likely to irritate skin or leave a mess.
Material: Nitrile is tough and allergy-friendly; latex feels better for precise tasks but check for patient allergies.
Get gloves with textured fingertips for a good grip when applying tape or gel.
Our PickHalyard Lavender Nitrile Exam Gloves.Buy on Amazon:
- Hot/Cold Pack Covers or Wraps
What Are They?These are fabric or disposable covers that go over hot or cold packs used for pain relief or swelling.
Why They’re a Must-HaveHot and cold packs are awesome for soothing sore muscles or reducing inflammation, but without a cover, they can burn or freeze the skin. Covers make them safe and comfy while keeping things clean between patients.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Temperature Control: Pick insulated covers to keep heat or cold lasting longer.
Cleaning: Go for machine-washable or disposable covers to stay hygienic.
Look for covers with straps to hold packs in place, like on a shoulder or knee.
Our PickChattanooga Hydrocollator Terry Cover.Buy on Amazon:
- Cotton Rolls & Gauze
What Are They?Cotton rolls and gauze are used for cleaning wounds, padding areas, or soaking up fluids during treatments.
Why They’re a Big DealIf a patient has a small cut or scrape, gauze and cotton rolls are your first-aid heroes. They’re also great for padding under tape or cleaning up gel, keeping everything tidy and safe.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Sterility: Get individually wrapped, sterile gauze for safety with wounds.
Bulk Buying: Buy in large packs to save money, but store them in a dry spot to keep them fresh.
Choose soft, absorbent cotton rolls for patient comfort.
Our PickMedline Sterile Gauze Pads, 4×4.Buy on Amazon:
- Surface Disinfectants & Sanitizers
What Are They?Disinfectants and sanitizers are sprays or wipes used to clean tables, machines, and other surfaces in the clinic.
Why They’re a Must-HaveA clean clinic is a safe clinic. Disinfectants stop germs from spreading between patients, especially on high-touch spots like therapy tables. The right ones also protect your pricey equipment from damage.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Equipment-Safe: Pick alcohol-free or low-alcohol options to avoid corroding machines.
Quick-Drying: Choose sprays or wipes that dry fast so you can move to the next patient.
Look for EPA-registered products to ensure they kill germs effectively.
Our PickClorox Healthcare Bleach Germicidal Wipes.Buy on Amazon:
- Masks & PPE
What Are They?Masks and personal protective equipment (PPE) like face shields are used to keep therapists and patients safe, especially in busy clinics.
Why They’re a Big DealWhen you’re working close to patients, masks protect against germs, especially during flu season or outbreaks. They’re also a must for keeping everyone comfortable and safe during hands-on treatments.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Breathable vs. Heavy-Duty: Surgical masks work for most clinics; face shields are better for high-risk settings.
Filtration: KN95 masks offer extra protection for crowded clinics.
Pick masks with comfy ear loops or adjustable straps for long shifts.
Our Pick3M Aura Particulate Respirator KN95.Buy on Amazon:
- Spare Batteries & Wires for Machines
What Are They?These are extra batteries and wires for portable machines like TENS, EMS, or ultrasound devices.
Why They’re a Must-HaveNothing’s worse than a machine dying in the middle of a session. Spare batteries and wires keep your equipment running, so patients don’t miss out on their treatments.
How to Choose the Right Ones
Compatibility: Make sure batteries (like AA or 9V) and wires match your machine’s specs.
Quality: Invest in durable wires to avoid fraying or frequent replacements.
Keep at least one spare set per machine to avoid surprises.
Our PickDuracell 9V Batteries, Pack of 4.Buy on Amazon:
Your Monthly Buying Checklist
