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Effects of Percutaneous Electrolysis on Endogenous Pain Modulation: A Randomized Controlled Trial Study Protocol
Sergio Varela-Rodríguez1, Juan Luis Sánchez-González1, José Luis Sánchez-Sánchez1
1Department of Nursery and Physiotherapy, Faculty of Nursery and Physiotherapy, University of Salamanca, 37007 Salamanca, Spain.
Brain Sciences
|July 2, 2021
Summary
Percutaneous electrolysis may enhance endogenous pain modulation (EPM) more than traditional needling. This study investigates its effects and dosage-dependent outcomes in asymptomatic individuals.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pain Management
- Electrophysiology
Background:
- Needling procedures' neurophysiological effects are hypothesized to involve endogenous pain modulation (EPM).
- Percutaneous electrolysis, applying galvanic current via acupuncture needles, warrants investigation for its impact on pain modulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if percutaneous electrolysis enhances EPM compared to sham needling and no intervention.
- To determine if the intensity of the galvanic electrical current influences EPM outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, randomized controlled trial involving 72 asymptomatic subjects aged 18-40.
- Four groups: control, needling only, low-intensity percutaneous electrolysis (0.3 mA × 90 s), and high-intensity percutaneous electrolysis (3x 3 mA × 3 s).
- Ultrasound-guided needling of the common extensor tendon; primary outcome conditioned pain modulation (CPM), secondary outcomes include pressure pain thresholds (PPT) and temporal summation (TS).
Main Results:
- This section is for results, which are not yet available as it is a protocol study.
Conclusions:
- This study protocol aims to elucidate the neurophysiological effects of percutaneous electrolysis on pain modulation.
- Findings are expected to clarify the efficacy of percutaneous electrolysis and its optimal current dosage for pain modulation.
