Scrambler Therapy for the Treatment of Pain and Sensory Symptoms in Corticobasal Syndrome: A Case Series

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Corticobasal syndrome (CBS) is a rare atypical parkinsonian disorder. Pain occurs in one-third of patients; current pain treatment options are often inadequate. Scrambler therapy (ST) is a noninvasive cutaneous method of neuromodulation that has shown success in other refractory neuropathic pain syndromes. CASE REPORT: We treated 3 patients with CBS with one to 3 40-minute sessions of ST, capturing the terminal arborization of the peripheral nerves within the affected painful dermatomes. All patients reported rapid and complete relief of their pain, with one patient having 4 months of ongoing relief, along with complete resolution of alien limb phenomenon. Another patient experienced 11 months of relief, with resumption of pain relief with retreatment after symptoms gradually returned. None have experienced complications or adverse effects to date. CONCLUSION: ST may represent a new noninvasive treatment for central pain associated with CBS. Further studies with longer follow-ups are warranted. KEY WORDS: Scrambler therapy, atypical parkinsonism, corticobasal syndrome, chronic pain, central pain