06-15: Phontophoresis

Question 1

Definition of Phontophoresis

Answer 1

• Use of US to transfer medication through the skin (transdermal)
• Can be used either continuous (more beneficial to increase blood flow) or pulsed
• If pro-inflammatory response, use non-thermal

Question 2

Advantages of Phontophoresis (3)

Answer 2

• Enhance distribution of medication through the skin
• Provides high concentration of drug directly to the treatment area
• Avoids risks involved with injections

Question 3

Medications for Phonto - Anti-Inflammatory

Answer 3

• Hydrocortisone (comes in cream - 10% or 1; 10% absorbs better)
• Cortisol
• Salicylates
• Dexamethasone (best applied continuous - thermal)

Question 4

Medications for Phonto - Analgesic

Answer 4

• Lidocaine
• Use on trigger points
• Treats arthritic disorders, bursitis, tendonitis, neuritis

Question 5

Issues with Phonto

Answer 5

• Medication must be prescribed by physician
• Some meds are poor coupling mediums; US doesn’t transmit well, so can interfere with delivery of medication
• Limited evidence supporting phonto

Question 6

Documentation of Phontophoresis

Answer 6

• Medication
• Mode (continuous or pulsed)
• Location of application
• Rx time
• Frequency (MHz)
• Intensity (W/cm2)