THE USAGE PATTERN OF PHONOPHORESIS IN THE MANAGEMENT OF MUSCULOSKELETAL PAIN BY PHYSIOTHERAPISTS IN TRIPOLI, LIBYA

Phonophoresis is an acoustic therapy that delivers topical medication to the tissue via theskin's layers. Despite the widespread use of phonophoresis in Tripoli's Hospitals, scientificdata supporting the practice is insufficient, particularly for skeletal muscle disorder. Thisexploratory study aimed to determine the usage pattern of phonophoresis by Libyanphysiotherapists and their perceptions of its clinical significance in managing commonmusculoskeletal pain. A cross sectional survey conducted on 121 physiotherapists duringthe period November and December 2020. Data was collected using a questionnaire inthree categories: demographics, phonophoresis application patterns and paincharacteristics. The data was then analyzed using SPSS. According to the survey results allphysiotherapists participating were using phonophoresis for managing commonmusculoskeletal disorders. The phonophoresis usage patterns in clinical practice amongparticipants were thermal TUS with an intensity of >0.8 W/cm2, a frequency of 3Megahertz (MHz) and voltaren gel as the most preferred topical medication. The durationof applying phonophoresis was 5 minutes for 8-10 therapeutic sessions to control the pain.Low back pain was a common cause of pain, characterized by constant moderate spasms.Additionally, the physiotherapist agreed that phonophoresis has a beneficial impact overthe medium term on the treatment line, and a very good influence on treatment outcomes.In conclusion, this study surveyed the opinions and experiences of various Libyanphysiotherapists in the usage patterns of phonophoresis to manage commonmusculoskeletal disorders. The findings revealed an apparent pattern of medicineadministration along with pain severity, causes and types. Further researches is advised toupgrade these clinical findings.