Scrambler Therapy Introduction
Scrambler Therapy is a proven, unique, non-invasive method for rapid treatment of chronic intractable neuropathic and cancer-related pain.
Who is it for?
Scrambler Therapy is a new electroanalgesia methodology studied explicitly for neuropathic pain, oncologic pain, and, in general, for pain non-responsive to other types of drugs and forms of electrical stimulation therapies (TENS, spinal cord stimulator)
How Scrambler Therapy® Technology Works?
Five independent channels are available to transmit the artificial “no pain” messages via surface electrodes (non-invasive) placed on the skin outside the region of the patient’s pain. Protocols are different based on the types of pain treated. It stimulates C fibers (pain carrying fibers) in a physiological form vs. TENS unit excessively stimulates A-Beta fibers to suppress signal transmission by C-fibers.
History of Scrambler Therapy
It was invented by Prof. Giuseppe Marineo around 2003 at the University of Rome, Italy. It received FDA clearance in 2009.
What is the efficacy of Scrambler Therapy?
It is generally operator and patient (type of condition) dependent. In clinical trials of CINP (Chemotherapy Induced Peripheral Neuropathy), efficacy has been around 60%. However, they can be higher than 80%.
What are the effects of combinations with other analgesic therapies?
Scrambler Therapy is a stand-alone medical electroanalgesia device and does not require combinations with other analgesic therapies. Using anticonvulsants for analgesic purposes generally calls for a higher number of treatments. It is also possible to continue the anticonvulsant analgesic therapy; however, in this case, results are not as good, and relapse is quicker. From the study phase data, the combination with Ketamine is incompatible since it seems to block the analgesic efficacy of the treatment.
Indications for Use
Painful Peripheral Neuropathy
Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS / RSD)
Chemotherapy-Induced Peripheral Neuropathy (CIPN)
Intractable Cancer Pain
Failed Back Surgery Syndrome
Sciatic and Lumbar Pain
Post-herpetic neuralgia (PHN)
Brachial Plexus Pain
Chronic Neuropathic Pain, Allodynia, Hyperalgesia
Scrambler Therapy® Technology Treatment Protocol
Additional Information
The patient visits the practice for ten treatment sessions on average—one session per day over a period of two weeks (weekdays). Treatment sessions may last from 30 to 45 minutes. Booster cycles are given when needed for symptom recurrence.
During the first session, after the correct electrode positioning and fine-tuned stimulation levels, the patient may notice significant improvements quickly. In the subsequent sessions, the patient may realize that pain relief is prolonged (reduced intensity and duration). So far, Scrambler Therapy does not have any known side effects except mild irritation at the site of electrode placement
Reference Articles Online
John Hopkins
Mayo Clinic
MUSC – Medical University of South Carolina
MD Anderson Cancer Center
Podcast @ MD Anderson
Reference Website
Scrambler Therapy Official Information Website.
