Phonophoresis
Phonophoresis is ultrasonic energy used to enhance skin permeability, while allowing the absorption of the drug into tissue. High-frequency sound waves are generated and drugs are delivered to deep tissue by ultrasound energy. The goal of phonophoresis is to enhance the delivery of drugs to painful areas.
Figure 1: Phonophoresis administered through ultrasound
Anti-inflammatory medications are delivered using phonophoresis. This is a noninvasive method of delivering appropriate medications. Phonophoresis requires an ultrasound machine. A pulsed method is typically used over continuous delivery. This method, like iontophoresis, is typically used to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as bursitis and tendonitis. Physical therapists with special training can treat patients using this technique in order to administer the medication directly to the area of concern.
Figure 2: Necessary equipment to administer phonophoresis
