A Novel Neuromodulation Method for Childhood Migraine: Comparing Noninvasive Pulsed Radiofrequency Therapy With Calcium Channel Blockers, a Randomized Controlled Trial
Abstract
BACKGROUND
This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of noninvasive pulsed radiofrequency (NiPRF) therapy for childhood migraine and compared its outcomes with calcium channel blockers (CCBs).
METHODS
A randomized controlled trial included 60 pediatric migraine patients (7-18 years). Patients were randomized into two groups: the CCB group (n = 30), receiving 5 mg flunarizine daily for 3 months, and the NiPRF group (n = 30), undergoing three weekly sessions of transcutaneous pulsed radiofrequency to the greater occipital nerve. Headache severity and frequency were recorded using a headache diary, and migraine-related disability was assessed with the Pediatric Migraine Disability Assessment score at baseline, one month, and 3 months. Two patients in the CCB group were excluded due to elevated transaminase levels and one in the NiPRF group for incomplete sessions, leaving 57 patients for analysis.
RESULTS
Both treatments significantly reduced headache frequency and headache severity from baseline at 1 and 3 months. At one month, there was no significant difference between groups. However, at 3 months, the CCB group showed greater headache frequency reduction. Pediatric Migraine Disability Assessment scores improved in both groups, with a greater reduction in the CCB group at 3 months. Two CCB patients experienced transient liver enzyme elevation, while no significant side effects were observed in the NiPRF group.
CONCLUSIONS
NiPRF is a safe and effective treatment for…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a randomized trial, done in people. Its evidence level is 2 of 5 (High · randomized trial). Randomized trials of a reasonable size are the strongest single-study design. Reported size: 60 participants or records.
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