Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is a therapeutic modality often used by physical therapists to treat a variety of conditions. It is a type of electrical stimulation that is used to administer medication into your body through your skin.

The medication used in iontophoresis depends on the goals of the treatment. Different medications have different effects on the body, and your PT will decide on the best medication for your specific condition. At that point, they will request a prescription for that medication from your physician and have it filled for you to pick up from your pharmacy.

There are many different uses for Iontophoresis. These include, but are not limited to:

• Decrease inflammation
• Decrease pain
• Decrease muscle spasm
• Decrease swelling and edema
• Reduce calcium deposits in the body
• Manage scar tissue

Iontophoresis can be used in physical therapy for the local delivery of anesthetics (such as lidocaine), cortisteroids, anti-inflammatory drugs. and analgesics to inflamed joints, muscles, and subcutaneous tissues.