Phonophoresis Technique Questioned

To the Editor: I read with interest the research report entitled “Phonophoretic Delivery of 10% Hydrocortisone Through the Epidermis of Humans as Determined by Serum Cortisol Concentrations” by Bare et al in the July 1996 issue of Physical Therapy . As indicated in the report regarding the results: “No rise in serum cortisol concentrations following hydrocortisone phonophoresis was detected…. These findings suggest that there was no penetration of hydrocortisone through the epidermis and into the underlying vasculature.”I have treated my own personal animals (horses) with ultrasound, using dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as a coupling agent (I work only with my own animals; as far I know, the only physical therapy practice act that mentions referral from veterinarians is that of New Mexico). I've used dosages that have ranged from 0.5 to 1 W/cm2. The types of injuries have included rupture of tendons (bowed tendons) and myositis.…[ ARTICLE][1] [1]: /lookup/volpage/76/738?iss=7