Iontophoresis is a way to get a drug deep into your body by the use of electricity. The two drugs most commonly used are lidocaine and dexamethasone. The treatment takes 10 to 20 minutes. During the treatment you may feel a slight tingling sensation. The treated area may look red after treatment. This redness should disappear within 8 to 12 hours.
Electrodes from a machine produce a small electric current which is placed over the drug. When the small electric current is on, the drugs are pushed away from the electrodes and into your body.
Iontophoresis is commonly used when tendons, bursae, or muscles are swollen or irritated. The drug which is pushed into your body helps to remove any extra fluid in the area. This extra fluid may have collected as a result of your injury.
