What is the best shoulder position for applying phonophoresis to the tendon of the long head of the biceps in a patient with bicipital tendinitis?

The optimal shoulder position for applying phonophoresis to the tendon of the long head of the biceps in a patient with bicipital tendinitis is lateral rotation and extension. This position helps to increase the accessibility of the bicipital tendon by moving it into a more favorable alignment, thus allowing the therapeutic ultrasound or phonophoresis to effectively penetrate deeper into the tissues.

In lateral rotation and extension, the shoulder joint creates space between the biceps tendon and surrounding structures, minimizing the potential for interference by other soft tissues. This enhanced visibility and accessibility are crucial for ensuring that the medication penetrates adequately to the area needing treatment.

Additionally, maintaining the shoulder in this position can help to reduce tension on the biceps tendon, providing better comfort for the patient while allowing for effective treatment. In contrast, the other positions might not provide the same benefits due to factors such as increased compression of the tendon by surrounding soft tissues or altered alignment that impedes optimal delivery of the therapeutic agents.