Abstract
BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: This randomised controlled trial evaluates the effectiveness of capacitive resistive monopolar radiofrequency (CRMRF) combined with proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) training in managing chronic low back pain (CLBP). Given the multifactorial nature of CLBP, this study explores a multimodal treatment approach integrating CRMRF, known for its thermal effects and ability to alleviate pain through improved cell metabolism and microcirculation, with PNF training, which enhances muscle strength, flexibility, and proprioception. METHODS: This study was designed as a single-blind, parallel, randomised controlled trial conducted in an outpatient clinical setting. Over the course of four months, 62 participants, suffering from chronic low back pain were randomly assigned to receive either the combined CRMRF and PNF treatment or PNF alone, with primary outcomes measured in terms of pain and functional disability using the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI). For secondary outcome of disability associated with pain, Quebec Pain Disability Scale (QPDS) and Roland-Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) were used. The study's hypothesis was that the combined treatment would reduce pain and disability more effectively than PNF alone. RESULTS: Results indicated that the experimental group experienced greater improvements in pain and functional disability, surpassing the minimally clinically important difference (MCID) for the VAS, ODI, QPDS and RMDQ, suggesting the clinical relevance of the combined CRMRF and PNF approach. DISCUSSION: These findings are consistent with previous research highlighting the benefits of CRMRF in various musculoskeletal disorders and suggest that integrating CRMRF with PNF training offers a promising non-invasive treatment option for CLBP sufferers. Overall, our study contributes to the growing evidence base supporting innovative, multimodal treatment strategies for managing CLBP, with the potential to enhance patients' quality of life. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05682287.