IONOPHORESIS Meaning and
Definition
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Ionophoresis is a therapeutic medical technique that involves the introduction of ions into the body through the use of an electric current. This process is commonly used in the field of medicine and physical therapy to administer medication or conduct certain diagnostic tests.
In ionophoresis, a small electrical current is passed through a specialized device that contains two electrodes – a positively-charged anode and a negatively-charged cathode. The electrodes are typically placed in separate compartments filled with a solution containing the desired ions.
Upon activation of the electrical current, the ions within the solution are driven towards the associated electrode due to the electrical attraction between opposite charges. This causes the ions to migrate through the skin or membranes to the targeted area of the body. The movement of ions can be regulated by adjusting the intensity and duration of the electrical current.
Ionophoresis can be used to deliver various medications or substances into the body, such as anti-inflammatory drugs, local anesthetics, or corticosteroids. By administering these substances directly to the affected area, ionophoresis allows for targeted treatment and local relief of symptoms. Additionally, this technique can aid in the diagnosis of certain medical conditions by analyzing the composition and concentration of ions in bodily fluids.
Overall, ionophoresis is a method that utilizes electrical currents to facilitate the controlled movement of ions, primarily for therapeutic or diagnostic purposes in the medical field.
Common Misspellings for IONOPHORESIS
Etymology of IONOPHORESIS
The word "ionophoresis" is derived from Greek roots. The term consists of two elements: "iono" and "phoresis".
The prefix "iono-" refers to "ion", which comes from the Greek word "ion" meaning "going" or "wandering". In the context of chemistry, an ion is an electrically charged atom or molecule.
The suffix "-phoresis" is derived from the Greek word "phoresis", which means "carrying" or "transporting". It is also related to the Greek word "phoros", meaning "porter" or "carrier".
Therefore, when combined, "ionophoresis" literally means "carrying ions" or "transporting ions". The term accurately describes the process in which ions are transported through a medium, such as a biological membrane, via the application of an electric current.
