IONTOPHORESIS

IONTOPHORESIS

I. Definition

A. Ion transfer of topical solutions into the epidermis and mucous membranes of body by continuous direct current (DC).

B. Discovered in 1903, that electrically charged electrode will repel a similar charged ion

Positive repels positive

Negative repels negative

C. Treatment Conditions or Dx.

edema
skin ulcers
pain
inflammation, tendinitis-bursitis-arthritis
fungus
calcium deposits
scar tissue

II. Theoretical Basis of Ionto

A. Pure distilled water does not conduct electrical current

B. When ionizable substance are dissolved in water, ionization occurs resulting in a solution called electrolytes which are capable of conducting electrical current. Transfer of these ions through negative or positive electrodes is called iontophoresis.

C. Ion transfer through the surface of the body depends on strength of electric field and impedance of tissue to flow

D. Anode positive acidic with harding

Cathode negative alkaline with softening

III. Continuous DC

A. Mode assures maximal ion transfer per unit of applied current either positive

or negative

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B. Increase in size of electrode to decrease current density. Which will reduce possible chemical burn. Most dangerous is cathode due to alkaline reaction.

Rule of thumb cathode twice size of anode

C. Capillary dilation with erythema will last 1-2 hours past treatment under

each electrode

IV. Transfer of Ions

A. Effectiveness will depend on....

number of ions transferred
depth of penetration
ions combine chemically with other substances
whether ions enter blood stream and are carried away

B. Number of ions transferred

current density at active electrode
duration of current flow
concentration of ions in the solution

Increase time current applied increase number of ions transferred

V. General Methodology of Treatment

A. Prior to Treatment

understand what treating
identify proper ion for treatment
identify polarity of ion
select DC generator continuous
allergic to ion
inspect body part: cuts, abrasions , new skin, scar
sensation
clean skin
explain procedure

B. Place active electrode over site of problem. Place dispersive electrode at least

18 inches away on same side

C. Make sure unit is turned OFF

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D. Turn unit on until patient feels a prickly or tingling sensation. If any burning or pain contact PTA

E. Following treatment an astringent gel may be massaged into the skin

VI. Contraindications

A. Same as for all stimulation

B. Allergic to medication or solution