Comparison of UNIQ and classic unipolar electrodes in TECAR therapy for low back pain: a retrospective cohort study

[Purpose] Low back pain (LBP) affects millions worldwide and frequently becomes chronic, diminishing quality of life. TECAR therapy is a non-invasive intervention that applies radiofrequency currents to heat tissues, reduce spasms, and enhance circulation. This study aimed to evaluate a novel electrode integrating resistive and capacitive mechanisms to determine its efficacy in managing LBP with TECAR therapy. [Participants and Methods] Fifty-two patients were assessed at baseline (T0) and after a 2-week treatment period (T1) and received TECAR therapy with either a conventional electrode or the UNIQ electrode. Pain intensity was measured with the Visual Analogue Scale, lumbar mobility by active range of motion in flexion and extension, and disability using the Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire. [Results] The treated group showed ΔVAS values of -6.00 ± 1.50 cm compared with -3.17 ± 1.85 cm in the control group. For lumbar range of motion, ΔROM was -1.75 ± 0.87 in the treated group and -1.16 ± 1.27 in the control group. Disability scores were -11.47 ± 4.81 in the treated group and -5.53 ± 4.21 in the control group. [Conclusion] These findings indicate that combining resistive and capacitive electrodes may increase the therapeutic effectiveness of TECAR therapy for managing low back pain.