Abstract

Background: Topical analgesic and anesthetic agents are indicated in the treatment of pain associated with various localized muscle, joint, or skin disorders. Phonophoresis is a therapeutic modality that is frequently used. This is because it is reported or believed to enhance the percutaneous absorption of certain pharmacological agents and has been used in the treatment of such a painful condition as cervical spondylosis.
Methods: A total of 18 participants took part and completed the study (6 in the methyl salicylate phonophoresis group, 6 in ketoprofen phonophoresis group and 6 in the therapeutic ultrasound group:control group). The participants were recruited using sample of convenience. Outcome measures were used to collect information regarding pain, range of motion and quality of life both pre and post intervention. The data was analyzed with Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).
Results: Results showed statistically significant differences, improved changes in pain, range of motion and neck disability index. Methyl salicylate (NDI: p<0.001, pain: p=0.001, left rotation: p=0.020), Ketoprofen (NDI: p=0.004, pain: p=0.002). Results also showed that there were no significant differences in the level of efficacy between methyl salicylate and ketoprofen phonophoresis. The two phonophoresis groups had greater clinical outcomes compared to the control group of therapeutic ultrasound.
Conclusion: Both methyl salicylate phonophoresis and ketoprofen phonophoresis were efficacious in the management of patients with cervical spondylosis, but methyl salicylate phonophoresis was marginally better.

Keywords: Phonophoresis; Cervical spondylosis; Ketoprofen; Methyl salicylate