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Iontophoresis for Musculo-Skeletal Inflammation
Iontophoresis or ElectroMotive Drug Administration (EMDA) is a very effective method of delivering drugs to the affected site which is commonly used in many countries including the USA. Genesis Medical and Physion are pioneers in EMDA.
Instead of injecting the drug (usually a steroid) directly into the inflamed area which is painful and has a risk of infection and side effects, EMDA spreads a high concentration of drug evenly through the tissue.
A cap with an adhesive rim is placed over the painful area then a drug solution is injected through the cap. An electrode is inserted into the solution and a MiniPhysionizer is connected with a dispersive pad placed on a limb.
When the MiniPhysionizer is switched on, a pulsed direct current attracts the ions in the molecules of the drug and drives it through the skin to be absorbed by the inflamed tissue. There are no side effects, no risk of infection and the treatment is painless.
The treatment should be repeated 2-3 times per week for 1 or 2 weeks.
Pain Relief - Introduction
Genesis Medical supplies a number of products which have been shown in clinical trials and through experience to relieve a broad range of painful conditions. It is essential to seek medical advice and treatment for all chronic pain. The products supplied by Genesis Medical are useful tools for therapists to provide effective treatments using electrical currents, shock waves, iontophoresis, and cushioning.
Many conditions can be successfully treated:
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The recommended drug solution for the above conditions except Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy comprises Dexamethasone sodium phosphate 4mg with Lignocaine hydrochloride 4% in 4-5 ml injected into the cap and placed over the painful area.
Two good clinical trials were published in the Journal of Orthpedic and Sports Physiotherapy, Vol. 4 No. 2:
"Introduction of Anti-inflammatory Drugs by Iontophoresis: Double Blind Study" by Lawrence E Bertolucci, reported on treatments for a variety of conditions on patients also classified by age group.
Excellent or good results were reported as follows:
| Below 35 years | 80% success |
| Between 35 and 44 years | 54% success |
| Between 45 and 54 years | 50% success |
Over 54 years all had fair or poor improvement, however adhesive capsulitis showed no improvement for all age groups.
"Iontophoresis: Clinical Research in Musculo Skeletal Inflammatory Conditions" by Phil R Harris.
Results were not classified by age, 76% excellent and good results were reported.