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Transcutaneous Pulsed Radiofrequency in Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Thalis Asimakopoulos1, Athanasia Tsaroucha2, Martina Rekatsina2
11st Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Aretaieion University Hospital, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece. medthalis@gmail.com.
Pain and Therapy
|June 17, 2026
Summary
Transcutaneous pulsed radiofrequency (TcPRF) shows promise for chronic pain management, reducing pain intensity and improving function. While generally safe, more research is needed due to study variations.
Area of Science:
- Neuromodulation
- Pain Management
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Transcutaneous pulsed radiofrequency (TcPRF) is an emerging non-invasive technique for chronic pain.
- Its effectiveness and safety across diverse chronic pain conditions require further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on TcPRF for chronic pain.
- To evaluate pain intensity, functional outcomes, and safety of TcPRF.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search of PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar.
- Inclusion of RCTs evaluating TcPRF in chronic pain conditions.
- Assessment of pain, function, safety, and risk of bias.
Main Results:
- Eight RCTs involving musculoskeletal and neuropathic pain were analyzed.
- TcPRF demonstrated pain reduction, especially in sham-controlled trials and longer follow-ups.
- The treatment was well-tolerated with no serious adverse events reported, but heterogeneity was noted.
Conclusions:
- TcPRF is a promising non-invasive option for specific chronic pain conditions.
- Current evidence is limited by heterogeneity and methodological variability.
- Further large-scale RCTs with standardized protocols are necessary to define its clinical role.
