Study of High Frequency Electrical Current Therapy on Pain and Movement in Adults with Muscle and Low Back Injuries Comparing Immediate and Long-Term Effects of TECAR and TENS Treatments

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying the effects of high-frequency electrical current transfer, called TECAR, on pain and functional movement in people with musculoskeletal injuries or pain. The study aims to compare immediate and long-term outcomes of TECAR therapy against transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation TENS and a control group. The trial includes individuals with acute hamstring strain or low back pain and those with chronic low back pain, assessing how these treatments may impact pain and movement over time. Participants are assigned randomly to one of three groups TECAR therapy using a device delivering 0.5 MHz current at 40-60% intensity, TENS therapy with 80 Hz electrical stimulation, or a control group receiving no active electrical treatment. The acute phase involves a single 20-minute session, with outcome measurements before and up to 48 hours after. The chronic phase includes 10 sessions over about three weeks, with follow-up assessments at 3 and 6 months. These phases allow evaluation of both short-term and lasting effects of the therapies. During the study, participants will undergo various tests including pain rating scales, flexibility and functional movement tests such as sit and reach, straight leg raising, and the Oswestry Disability Index. Assessments occur at multiple time points before and after treatments to track changes. Researchers will use statistical methods to analyze differences between groups over time. The study lasts several months for chronic participants, with close monitoring of pain and muscle function throughout.

High Frequency RF Current Effects on Muscle Pain and Function