olive oil phonophoresis

Olive oil phonophoresis is a therapeutic intervention being evaluated for the treatment of chronic low back pain, specifically in female athletes. This approach utilizes phonophoresis—the use of therapeutic ultrasound to enhance the transdermal delivery of topical agents—to administer virgin olive oil to the affected area. Virgin olive oil contains several bioactive phenolic compounds, most notably oleocanthal, which exhibits anti-inflammatory properties similar to ibuprofen by inhibiting cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes. Other components like oleuropein and hydroxytyrosol also contribute to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The treatment typically involves daily sessions over a set period (e.g., 10 days) to reduce pain and improve functional outcomes. This modality represents a physical therapy approach combining a natural product with medical device-assisted delivery.

Other names

virgin olive oil phonophoresisolive oil ultrasound therapy