Study of Non-Invasive Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment for Chronic Neuropathic Pain After Peripheral Nerve Injury

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of non-invasive pulsed radiofrequency NIPRF therapy for treating chronic neuropathic pain that occurs after peripheral nerve injury. This type of pain often follows trauma or surgery and is commonly managed with nerve blocks, medications, physical therapy, neuromodulation, or surgery. The study aims to determine if NIPRF, delivered by an FDA-cleared device called the Stimpod, is an effective treatment option for this condition. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either active NIPRF treatment or a non-active placebo device treatment. Those receiving active treatment will undergo three weekly sessions lasting about 20 minutes each. The device emits a high-frequency magnetic field via two electrodes, one placed on the skin and the other applied to the target nerve. The placebo device looks and sounds the same but does not deliver electrical stimulation. After the trial, participants in the placebo group will be offered three free active treatments. During the study, participants will be assessed for treatment response after three weeks of starting treatment. They will complete online and phone assessments to monitor pain levels and other outcomes. The study will track how well participants respond to the treatment and will monitor safety throughout the trial, which is sponsored by Stanford University and planned to continue until January 2029.

Non-Invasive Pulsed Radiofrequency for the Treatment of Neuropathic Pain