Immobilization is not a good thing for joints. Since the majority of football-related injuries are sprains, strains, and contusions, electromagnetic current and ultrasound are important because they stimulate the soft tissue to regain muscle tone and decrease swelling, said John Norwig, head athletic trainer of the Pittsburgh Steelers . These tools can also help heal broken bones up to 50 percent faster, Chao said. Paul Sparling, head athletic trainer for the Cincinnati Bengals , said one of the most useful pieces of technology in his arsenal is the iontophoresis machine. Using an anti-inflammatory, the ions in the medicine itself, and a phoresor, the machine drives the medicine directly into the soft tissue without breaking the skin.
Studies indicate there's no increased risk with iontophoresis.
Bartolozzi credited the players themselves for speeding up the recovery process. Their fanatical attention to fitness and conditioning, he said, has made them bigger, stronger, and faster. Now if they come out of shape, they won't make the team. Wired Digital Inc. All rights reserved.