Comparing two methods of radiofrequency treatment for neck and shoulder pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial aims to compare the effectiveness of Pulsed Radiofrequency Ablation (PRF) versus Continuous Radiofrequency Ablation (CRF) in treating cervical facet joint-mediated pain, including neck pain, shoulder pain, and cervicogenic headaches. Eligible patients will be randomly assigned to one of the two treatment groups after undergoing medial branch blocks to assess their pain relief. The study will utilize a blinded approach for patients, with treatment success evaluated through questionnaires administered every three months. The recruitment process is expected to take 15-24 months, depending on the sample size achieved.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Age 18-90;

Pain duration \> 3 months

Cervical, Shoulder pain or cevicogenic Headache per Pain Diagram;

Two single blinded facet medial branch blocks (MBB) performed 30 days prior to the facet RF;

Subjects show 50% and more pain relief after each MBB (using VAS for this assessment);

Unsuccessful or poorly tolerated previous treatments including: pain control medications, chiropractic, osteopathy, massage therapy, physiotherapy, acupuncture, aqua therapy, Botox injection, and trigger point injection;

Exclusion Criteria:

Non-English speakers;

Refusal to sign informed consent;

Less than 50% pain relief after MBB (using VAS);

Variation in the dose of concomitant pain control medication less than 4 weeks before the procedure;

Allergy to medication or radiology contrast;

Patients with coagulation issues, those currently using anticoagulants and didn't stop them based on Allevio clinic's policy for anticoagulants;

Pregnant patients;

Any pain interventions including previous RF, MBB, infusions 90 days prior to the first MBB for the same area (Except failed Botox injection, and trigger point injection);

Where it's running

• Allevio Pain Management Clinic
  Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
• Allevio Pain Management
  Toronto, Ontario, Canada Recruiting

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.