Phonophoresis: the principles of the ultrasonic driving force and efficacy in treatment of common orthopaedic diagnoses

Phonophoresis with antiinflammatories or local anaesthetics is utilized by physical therapists as part of their treatment plans. The physics of ultrasound and the mechanical, thermal, chemical, biological, and physiological effects on the body's tissues are reviewed. Experimental studies cited showed increased muscle and nerve cortisol concentration when a topical application is followed by ultrasound. Clinical studies demonstrate greater pain relief and functional range of motion improvement when treatment protocols opted for hydrocortisone phonophoresis as opposed to ultrasound. Phonophoresis is compared to iontophoresis as another means of driving a topically applied medication into the tissues, and the benefits of each are discussed. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 1982;4(2):99-102.