TRANSCUTANEOUS PULSED RADIOFREQUENCY TREATMENT (TPRF)

What is Transcutaneous Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment?  Transcutaneous Pulsed Radiofrequency Treatment (TPRF) is an innovative, non-invasive procedure designed for pain management. It is performed in consultation rooms, is painless, and can be repeated as needed. This technique has been developed in the Netherlands and has also been studied through randomised control trials, including those conducted in Melbourne. It shows a moderate degree of efficacy based on the available data and is very safe. 

TPRF helps reduce inflammation and sensitivity in the body by adjusting the way our nerves communicate. It does this by increasing the release of substances that calm inflammation (anti-inflammatory cytokines) and decreasing those that trigger it (proinflammatory cytokines). This can help reduce pain and sensitivity in the treated area. 

HOW DOES IT WORK?

  • Medications: You can continue to take your usual medications unless otherwise instructed. 

  • Inform the practice staff or doctor of any factors that might impact your treatment, eg if you have a pacemaker or any other medical devices. 

  • Safety Note: TPRF cannot be applied directly over a pacemaker or neurostimulator but can be safely used on other areas. 

  • Metal Removal: Please remove any metal prior to treatment, such as watches, necklaces, and jewellery, as this may interfere with the medical equipment. 

  • Avoid applying body oils, and moisturisers to the treatment area and shave excess hair to allow good adhesion of electro pads.

PREPARATION FOR YOUR TREATMENT

WHAT HAPPENS DURING TREATMENT

  • Setting: The treatment is conducted in our consultation rooms. 

  • Painless and Non-Invasive: It does not require needles or sedation. 

  • Supervised Procedure: Dr Bates’ clinic nurse or exercise physiologist applies the treatment under the indirect supervision of Dr Bates.

  • Electrodes: Electrodes are placed on your skin over the painful area and may be repositioned during the session as per Dr Bate’s instructions. 

  • Duration: Treatment for each painful site takes approximately 15–30 minutes. 

  • Expected Results: If successful, improved pain may last 1–3 months or longer. Most patients begin to see benefits around the 2-week mark.

WHAT HAPPENS AFTER TREATMENT

  • TPRF sessions: Typically prescribed as a series of 1/4 sessions per week, depending on individual response and the doctor’s recommendation. 

  • Immediate Recovery: Normal activities can be resumed promptly. Avoid strenuous exercise for 12 hours and gradually return to your usual routine. 

  • Pain Relief Timeline: Most patients experience an improvement in their symptoms after approximately 2 weeks, some patients report pain relief several hours after treatment.    

  • Pain chart: A 14-day pain chart will be provided 1/4 TPRF session and 3/4 TPRF session.

  • You will receive a 2-week nurse phone review. Please send your pain chart to the clinic prior to this review.

  • For any additional questions or concerns, feel free to contact our staff. We are here to support you. 

FOLLOW-UP