Before administering iontophoresis, your physical therapist must first determine which type of medication to use. The medication used will depend on the purpose of the treatment.
Don’t be surprised if your therapist will ask you to contact your physician before administering medication through iontophoresis. This is because most US states would require that they obtain a prescription from your doctor before conducting iontophoresis.
During the procedure, a direct current electrical stimulation unit will be used. It will have two electrodes; one for negative current, and the other for the positive current. Your physical therapist will use either one depending on the type of medication being used.
You'll then place the afflicted body part in the medicated solution. Your therapist will turn the machine on and increase the intensity until you feel a slight tingling sensation on your skin. The electricity will then "push" the medication into your body. You'll undergo the treatment for 20-30 minutes every 1-3 days until the desired effect is achieved. At this point, treatments will be scheduled for at least once a week to maintain results.
Before the procedure, you'll be asked to apply petroleum jelly on the skin to prevent discomfort or inflammation. Nevertheless, the initial current will be very low and then adjusted according to your tolerance.
