Utilization of hydrocortisone phonophoresis in United States Army Physical Therapy Clinics.

The utilization of hydrocortisone phonophoresis in United States Army Physical Therapy Clinics was surveyed by questionnaire in 1986. Hydrocortisone phonophoresis is a therapeutic treatment method that uses ultrasound to drive hydrocortisone into subcutaneous tissues in order to produce an anti-inflammatory effect. The treatment is used for conservative management of numerous musculoskeletal disorders that affect the military readiness of the patient. The survey demonstrated that a majority of Army clinics used hydrocortisone phonophoresis. Typical treatment parameters are identified and compared with parameters in the literature. Review of the literature indicates that more research of this treatment is needed.