Definition:
It is the transfer of irons of drugs into the body through the skin for
therapeutic purpose by the use of a constant direct current. (It is the only
one use of constant direct current)
Principle:
The principle is based on the fact that ions will migrate to the electrode of
opposite charge under the influence of an electromotive force; a negative ion
is applied under the cathode. A constant direct current is then applied and the
ion is electrically propelled into the patient. Drugs are often more
effectively transferred into the affected area by topical application in the
form of cream, liniments or lotions.
Process:
1) Ionization:
Dissolving the medicinal substances in water breaks them into ions.
2) Introduction:
Positive ions are introduced into the skin or mucous membrane at the positive
electrode and negative ions are introduced into the skin or mucous membrane at
the negative electrode.
3) Deeper
penetration of the medicinal substances.
Indication:
1) Relief of pain:
Iontophoresis relieves pain by removing the increased concentration of 
and 
ions which accumulates
in area of ischemia and inflammation.
and ions which accumulates
in area of ischemia and inflammation.
2) Adhesions:
“Renotin” can be used in iontophoresis. This affects the fibrous tissue of the
adhesions and helps to resolve them.
3) Chronic congestion of mucous membrane:
Transfer of “Zinc sulphate” beneficial to congestion of mucous membrane.
4) Calcium deposition:
“Acetic acid” transfer into calcium deposit has proved effective.
5) Idiopathic hyperhydrosis:
“Glycopyrronium bromide” is effective for treatment of idiopathic hyperhydrosis
of palm and sole.
Contraindication:
1) Skin lesion/Open skin:
Large open area remains wet and current tends to collect at that point. If the
open area is in the direct pathway of the current or under the electrodes will
cause intense discomfort and pain.
2) Dermatological condition:
Certain dermatological conditions such as eczema, tinea, ring-worm, psoriasis
and fungus spread the infection further in the patient himself or to other
patients using the same apparatus.
3) Edematous area:
Edematous area with a fine paper like skin must be aoided to prevent breakdown.
4) Infections:
An infection must not be treated with low frequency currents because of the
danger of sperading the infection or exacerbating the condition.
5) Inflammation:
Any acute inflammation with an underlying danger of infection or with
thrombosis as a complication may exaggerate.
6) Thrombosis:
Patients with deep vin thrombosis or with atherosclerosis of the arterial
vessels must not be treated with faradic like currents because of the danger of
causing an embolus.
7) Marked loss of skin sensation:
If there is a total loss of sensation in the limb being treated a low frequency
current must not be given for a long period of time as there is a possibility
of chemical burn.
8) Active tuberculosis and cancer:
Active tuberculosis and cancer may be exaggerated.
9) Cardiac pacemakers:
It is not advisable to apply a low frequency current in the regioin of the
thorax or the pacemaker control unit as it may interfer with the function of
the pacemaker.
10) Unreliable patients:
Patients who cannot co-operate or understand the dangers of the treatment
should be avoid.
11) Superficial metal:
Metal in the pathway of the current will concentrate it and may cause a burn.
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