Thalis Asimakopoulos · Athanasia Tsaroucha · Martina Rekatsina; Transcutaneous Pulsed Radiofrequency in Chronic Pain: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Pain and Therapy, 2026
This first systematic review of TcPRF in chronic pain synthesized eight RCTs (n = 467) covering musculoskeletal conditions (knee osteoarthritis, shoulder pain, subacromial impingement syndrome, lateral epicondylitis) and neuropathic pain syndromes (carpal tunnel syndrome, diabetic neuropathic pain, chronic migraine). Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool.
Key findings:
- TcPRF reduced pain intensity across all eight RCTs, with the most consistent effects in sham-controlled trials and at later follow-up time points. Functional outcomes generally improved in parallel.
- No serious adverse events were reported. Mild transient skin reactions (erythema, occasional burning) occurred in 22 of 467 participants, resolving spontaneously.
- Evidence is limited by small sample sizes, short follow-up, and heterogeneity in protocols and outcome measures. Larger, well-designed RCTs are needed.
Significance: The first systematic review to consolidate RCT evidence for TcPRF across chronic pain conditions, supporting its potential as a non-invasive treatment option where a less interventional approach is preferred.