Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is the process whereby chemical ions are transported through the skin by an electrical current. Using a direct current low-voltage uninterrupted generator with positive and negative electrodes, the medication is placed onto a pad that has direct contact over the painful site and the medication is transported into the body. The polarity of the electrode used in iontophoresis depends on the polarity of the ion introduced. This is a terrific alternative to undergoing needle injections for trigger points or bursitis. Medications of choice for treating musculoskeletal conditions have commonly been pain relievers such as lidocaine or xylocaine and anti-inflammatory agents such as hydrocortisone or dexamethasone. Since it is a medication, your physician or nurse practitioner would need to prescribe it for you specifically. Working as a team, your therapist discusses using this modality with your referring health care provider. Commonly, this treatment approach is for tendonitis, bursitis, and arthritis. We have found it to be effective in treating sports injuries, carpal tunnel syndrome, tennis elbow, facial pain, TMJ dysfunction, coccyx (tailbone) pain, vulvar pain, osteitis pubis, and pelvic pain.