Therapeutic Efficacy of Methyl Salicylate Phonophoresis in the Management of Musculoskeletal Injuries among Athletes

Abstract

Background: The use of corticosteroids for phonophoresis despite the possible adverse effect in the management of musculoskeletal disorders
is widely reported in the literature, whereas very limited studies have been done with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs particularly, methyl salicylate 15% in the management of musculoskeletal injuries(MSIs) sustained during sports. This study was therefore, designed to investigate the efficacy of methyl salicylate phonophoresis in the management of pain among subjects who sustained common musculoskeletal injuries during sports.
Method: Subjects' pre- and post-treatment pain perception scores(PPS) using visual analogue scale(VAS) and the sessions of treatment were recorded. Ultrasound(US) at an intensity of 1.5W/cm² and frequency of 1MHz was used to apply methyl salicylate to subject affected part for 8 minutes on alternate days. Of the 15 eligible subjects, only 14 received and completed treatment.
Result: The difference in the severity of pain before and after treatment was statistically significant(P < 0.05). 13(93%) subjects were pain free and fit for discharge after about two-half weeks of treatment.             Conclusion: The study has demonstrated the efficacy of methyl salicylate phonophoresis in the management of musculoskeletal injuries(MSIs) in sports. The procedure was well tolerated and in less than 10 treatment sessions, more than 90% of the subjects were pain free, side effects free and fit to return to active sports.

Key Words: Methyl salicylate, Musculoskeletal injury, Phonophoresis, Ultrasound.