Efficacy of second generation capacitive-resistive non-invasive radiofrequency in improving perfusion index and attenuating lower limb painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy

BACKGROUND: Diabetic peripheral neuropathy is a prevalent consequence of diabetes mellitus that impairs quality of life. This study aimed to investigate the impact of second generation capacitive-resistive non-invasive radiofrequency (transfer of energy capacitive and resistive, TECAR) therapy as a non-invasive modality to increase peripheral perfusion assessed using pulse oximetry by measuring the perfusion index (PI), and to improve pain in patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDPN). METHODS: A prospective interventional study was performed in the outpatient clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Twenty-three patients of both sexes, aged 40-70 years, with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and PDPN in the lower limbs, with Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) ≥3 in the feet, were included in the study. All patients received 12 sessions of TECAR therapy over four weeks under PI monitoring of the big toe on the targeted side. The change in PI at the end of the first session was defined as a primary outcome. Pain scoring and analgesic effect at the end of all sessions were set as secondary outcomes. RESULTS: session. Tactile sensation showed significant improvement from the fourth session through the end of the sessions. By the end of the sessions, 18 patients (78.3%) achieved complete remission, with a significant Difference compared to baseline (P value <0.001). The Total Remission Rate was 82.08±11.33%. CONCLUSIONS: TECAR therapy is proposed as an effective, safe, and non-invasive approach for improving symptoms of peripheral neuropathy associated with T2DM.