Which modality is used to enhance the absorption of topical medications?

Phonophoresis involves the use of ultrasound waves to facilitate the transdermal delivery of medications, enhancing their absorption through the skin. By utilizing therapeutic ultrasound, phonophoresis increases the permeability of the skin, allowing for a more effective transport of the medication into the underlying tissues. This technique is particularly useful for applying anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relief medications, making it a common choice in clinical settings to deliver therapeutic agents where they are most needed.

In contrast, other modalities serve different purposes. Therapeutic ultrasound is primarily used for tissue healing, improving circulation, and reducing pain through thermal and mechanical effects, but it is not specifically aimed at enhancing absorption of topical medications. Iontophoresis employs electric current to drive charged medication molecules through the skin but does so with ionic substances rather than ultrasound. Shortwave diathermy uses high-frequency electromagnetic energy to generate heat in tissues, aiding in pain relief and tissue healing but does not enhance the absorption of topical medications. Therefore, the primary mechanism and purpose of phonophoresis clearly mark it as the correct modality for enhancing the absorption of topical agents.