The Resource Manual 

Basics of Iontophoresis

Indications 

• Hyperhydrosis

• Plantar fasciitis

• Peyronies disease

• Musculoskeletal inflammatory disorders

• TMJ

Contraindications

• Over damaged skin and open lesions

• Known sensitivity or allergy to ions delivered

• Over skin with impaired sensation

• Over electronic implants

Adverse Effects

• Burns

Parameters

• Electrode placement

  • Active electrode

    • Immediately over the treatment area

  • Dispersive

    • As far as possible from the active, at a distance longer than the diameter of the smallest electrode 

• Electrode Size

  • Keep cathode larger than anode regardless of which is active

• Commonly Used Ions and Proposed effects

  • Acetate (-):                            

    • Calcium deposits

  • Dexamethasone (-):             

    • tissue inflammation by inhibiting prostaglandins

  • Hydrocortisone (+):                         

    • prostaglandin inhibitor

  • Lidocaine (+):                                   

    • Decreases local pain through blocking local nerve impulse transmission

  • Tap water (+/-):                  

    • suppresses sweating of palms, soles, and armpits by inducing keratin plugs in the lumen of sweat glands

• Clinical dose

  • Range from 1-80 mA.min

  • Normally 49 mA.min