Comparison of effects of phonophoresis and iontophoresis of naproxen in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to compare the effectiveness of naproxen (10%) applied by topical iontophoresis or by phonophoresis in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.


METHODS
Randomized controlled trial.


METHODS
Dokuz Eylül University School of Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation.


METHODS
This study was carried out with 61 patients who had lateral epicondylitis. They were randomized into two groups.


METHODS
Naproxen was applied to the first group using phonophoresis (29 patients--33 extremities) and to the second group using iontophoresis (32 patients--34 extremities). Patients in both groups were treated by other physiotherapy methods (cold pack, progressive strengthening and stretching exercises).


RESULTS
Pain scores (at rest, during motion, with pressure, weight lifting), grip strength and Nirschl-Petterone Grading System were evaluated before and after treatment.


RESULTS
Pain scores decreased, grip strength and Nirsch-Petterone Grading System statistically significantly increased in both groups after treatment (p < 0.05), but there were no statistical differences between groups before or after treatment (p > 0.05).


CONCLUSIONS
The results suggest that iontophoresis and phonophoresis of naproxen are equally effective electrotherapy methods in the treatment of lateral epicondylitis.
Başkurt
Ferdi
F
Dokuz Eylül University School of Physical Therapy, Izmir, Turkey.
Ozcan
Ayşe
A
Algun
Candan
C
D000287:Administration, Topical; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007478:Iontophoresis; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009288:Naproxen / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000494:pharmacology*; D010146:Pain / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000209:etiology; D010147:Pain Measurement; D015612:Phonophoresis; D013716:Tennis Elbow / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016896:Treatment Outcome
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D009288:Naproxen