Abstract
Phonophoresis is an acoustic therapy that delivers topical medication to the tissue via the skin layers. Despite the widespread use of phonophoresis in Tripoli’s hospitals, scientific data supporting the practice are insufficient, particularly for skeletal muscle disorder. This exploratory study aimed to determine the usage pattern of phonophoresis by Libyan physiotherapists and their perceptions of its clinical significance in managing common musculoskeletal pain. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 121 physiotherapists from November to December 2020. Data were collected using a questionnaire in three categories: demographics, phonophoresis application patterns, and pain characteristics. The data were then analyzed using SPSS. According to the survey results, all physiotherapists participating were using phonophoresis for managing common musculoskeletal disorders. Results indicated that the most utilized patterns of PP were thermal TUS with an intensity of >0.8w/cm2 and a frequency of 3MH by 55.4%, 51.2%, and 40.5% of participants, respectively. Voltaren gel was the most preferred topical medication by 45% of participants. 59.5% and 33.9% of participants reported that the duration of applying phonophoresis 5 minutes for 8-10 therapeutic sessions to control the pain, respectively. Moreover, 35.5% of participants indicated that Low back pain was a common cause of pain. Additionally, the physiotherapist agreed that PP has a beneficial impact over the medium term on the treatment line (p=0.00), and a very good influence on treatment outcomes. In conclusion, phonophoresis is a valuable and versatile modality in physiotherapy that is effective for a wide spectrum of musculoskeletal pain. A continuous process of professional updating is suggested to confirm these clinical results.