What is the Difference Between Iontophoresis and Phonophoresis?

Iontophoresis and phonophoresis are both methods used to deliver medication through the skin, but they use different techniques to achieve this:

• Iontophoresis involves the use of low-level electric current to deliver charged, ionic drugs through the skin. The drug is placed on the skin with an electrode of the same charge, allowing the electric current to drive the drug into the skin. Examples of successful applications of iontophoresis include treatment of inflammation and pain in muscles and tendons, rapid local anesthesia, relief of heel pain, and control of pain from conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and plantar fasciitis.
• Phonophoresis (also known as sonophoresis) uses ultrasonic waves to transmit molecules of drug through the skin. A cream or gel containing medications such as corticosteroids, local anesthetics, or electrolytes is applied to the skin, and ultrasound is used to enhance the penetration of these drugs. Phonophoresis has been reported to be effective in treating various conditions, including osteoarthritis of the knee.

Both iontophoresis and phonophoresis are used to treat inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, plantar fasciitis, tendonitis, bursitis, and carpal tunnel syndrome. They are also used to deliver various drugs, including local anesthetics, corticosteroids, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

Comparative Table: Iontophoresis vs Phonophoresis

Iontophoresis and phonophoresis are both methods used to deliver drugs through the skin, but they use different techniques to achieve this. Here is a table comparing the two methods:

Both methods are suitable alternatives to injecting drugs directly into the body and can be used for various therapeutic purposes. While iontophoresis uses electric current to introduce drugs through the skin, phonophoresis uses ultrasound to achieve the same goal.