Iontophoresis

Iontophoresis is most commonly used to treat hyperhidrosis disorder, a condition that results in persistent and excessive sweating. This sweating may occur in certain situations, such as during warm weather or physical activity, or without any trigger at all. It can also be caused by other medical conditions, such as hyperthyroidism or menopause. Aside from treating hyperhidrosis, iontophoresis may also be used to treat sports injuries by delivering anti-inflammatory medications directly into the skin.

A Medical device will be used to deliver mild electrical currents while your affected body part is submerged in water. The currents are often delivered blocks your sweat glands temporarily. Some people feel a slight tingling sensation during the procedure, but the electrical current isn’t strong enough to shock you.

Iontophoresis doesn’t require any special or advanced preparation. However, make sure to tell your doctor if you:
• Are pregnant.
• Have epilepsy.
• Have a heart condition.
• Have a pacemaker or other metal implants, such as artificial joint replacements.

If you have open wounds, it is best to apply petroleum jelly prior to the procedure to reduce possible irritations.

You’ll place the affected body part in a basin of water. Your doctor or another healthcare provider will then turn on the machine and increase the current until you feel a slight tingling sensation on your skin but should not feel pain.

When being used as a treatment for a sports injury, an anti-inflammatory medication will be applied before you submerge the body part in a basin of water. Mild electrical current to the medicated water. 

Most iontophoresis sessions for sports injuries last 10 to 15 minutes.

During the procedure, expect to feel a tingling sensation however, it should not be pain..

If there are irritations, over-the-counter creams can be used. However, do check with your doctor beforehand.

Try to avoid too much heat and sun exposure after the treatment.

For injuries, physical therapy, rest and nutrition can help the healing process

You’ll likely need more than one session to notice a change in your symptoms. Some people with hyperhidrosis require treatments on a regular basis.

The effects usually aren’t serious. The most common side effect is:
– Dryness of the skin.
– Blistering, peeling, and irritation.

However, these side effects can usually be treated by applying moisturizer to the skin after each session.