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Iontophoresis (electrophoresis)
iontophoresis · electrophoresis physical therapy · galvanic current therapy · drug iontophoresis
A weak electric current helps medicine pass through the skin to the right spot. Damp pads with electrodes are placed on your body.
For joint and back pain, after injuries, or for inflammation, as part of treatment your doctor prescribes. It is also used for children.
⏱ Duration: a session usually takes 10 to 20 minutes; a course is usually about 10 sessions. Your doctor will decide how many
Be sure to tell your doctor
How to prepare
- Skin. Skin should be clean, with no cream and no wounds.
- Food. Do not come hungry or right after a big meal.
- Clothes. Wear something that lets you uncover the area. Remove jewelry there.
What to bring
- Your doctor's referral
- Your own medicine, if the clinic asked you to bring it
- A towel, if asked
How it goes
- You lie or sit comfortably
- Damp pads, sometimes with medicine, are placed on the skin
- Electrodes go on top and are secured
- The nurse turns on the device and slowly increases the current
- You lie still until the end
- The pads are removed, and the skin is wiped
What you'll feel
- Light tingling or prickling
- There should be no burning. Tell the nurse right away
Afterwards
- Mild redness under the electrodes may remain. It passes on its own
- Do not rub or wet the skin right after
- Come to sessions on schedule. The full course matters
Contact a doctor straight away if
- A burn, blister, or strong redness on the skin: show your doctor
Common questions
Does it hurt?
No. Usually you only feel light tingling.
Can a child have it?
Yes, it is done for children too, if a doctor prescribes it. A weaker current is used.