Phonophoresis is a therapeutic technique that utilizes ultrasound technology to deliver medication through the skin.
Understanding Phonophoresis
Phonophoresis is a technique by which therapeutic ultrasound is used to introduce pharmacologic agents, usually anti-inflammatory or analgesic drugs, through intact skin into the subcutaneous tissues. This means that sound waves are employed to help push topical medications deeper into the body's tissues without the need for injections or breaking the skin.
How it Works
The process involves applying a medication (often in a gel or cream form) to the skin over the target area. Then, an ultrasound device is used to apply sound waves over the area. These sound waves are thought to increase the permeability of the skin and potentially enhance the absorption of the medication into the underlying tissues.
Key Components
- Therapeutic Ultrasound: Low-frequency or high-frequency sound waves used for medical purposes.
- Pharmacologic Agents: The medications being delivered.
- Intact Skin: The skin must be unbroken.
- Subcutaneous Tissues: The layer of tissue just beneath the skin.
Common Applications
Phonophoresis is often used in physical therapy and sports medicine to treat conditions involving pain and inflammation, particularly in muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
- Medication Delivery: The primary goal is to deliver medication directly to the affected area.
- Drug Types: Commonly delivered drugs include:
- Anti-inflammatory agents (e.g., corticosteroids, NSAIDs like ibuprofen or diclofenac)
- Analgesic agents (pain relievers)
By targeting the medication locally, phonophoresis aims to reduce systemic side effects that can occur with oral administration of these drugs, while providing targeted relief at the site of injury or inflammation.
This method offers a non-invasive way to potentially enhance the absorption of topical medications, making it a useful adjunct in the treatment of various musculoskeletal conditions.
