Iontophoresis: Clinical research in musculoskeletal inflammatory conditions

Abstract

Fifty patients with various musculoskeletal inflammatory conditions were treated with iontophoresis (direct current 5 milliamperes, 20 minutes). The treatment drugs were 1 cubic centimeter, 4 milligrams per millimeter of dexamethasone sodium phosphate (Decadron) combined with 2 cubic centimeters of 4% Xylocaine. Thirty-eight of the 50 patients had an excellent relief of pain and symptoms, seven reported moderate relief, and five patients had little or no change. There were no significant side effects. It was concluded that iontophoresis is an effective mode of delivering ionized antiinflammatory drugs to inflamed tissues. It is effective, and safe, and provides a viable treatment.