Treatment of Postherpetic Pain With Scrambler Therapy, a Patient-Specific Neurocutaneous Electrical Stimulation Device

Abstract

Objectives:

Postherpetic neuropathy (PHN) is common, severe, and often refractory to treatment. We treated 10 patients with refractory PHN using Scrambler therapy, a neurocutaneous stimulation device that delivers “nonpain” information with surface electrodes.

Methods:

Scrambler therapy was given as 30-minute sessions daily for 10 days. Pain was recorded before and after treatment. Two centers.

Study Performed by:

Thomas J. Smith, MD – Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center, Johns Hopkins, Baltimore, MD

Giuseppe Marineo – Delta Research & Development, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy

Result:

The average pain score rapidly diminished from 7.64 ± 1.46 at baseline to 0.42 ± 0.89 at 1 month, a 95% reduction, with continued relief at 2 and 3 months. Patients achieved maximum pain relief with less than 5 treatments.

Discussion:

Scrambler therapy appears to have a promising effect on PHN, with prompt and continued relief and no side effects. Further research is warranted.