Supplementary file 1_Efficacy and safety of pulsed radiofrequency combined with nerve block for cervical radiculopathy: a systematic review and meta-analysis.docx

Compared with nerve block alone, combined therapy significantly improved the overall clinical response rate (RR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.05–1.22), reduced pain intensity measured by VAS score (MD = −0.87, 95% CI: −1.27 to −0.47), increased cervical flexion–extension range of motion (MD = 8.56, 95% CI: 1.67–15.44), and improved Yasuhisa Tanaka symptom scores (MD = 2.61, 95% CI: 1.81–3.40). No significant difference was observed in adverse reactions (RR = 0.96, 95% CI: 0.52–1.78).</p>Discussion<p>Pulsed radiofrequency combined with nerve block may provide greater pain relief and better overall clinical response than nerve block alone without increasing short-term adverse reactions.

Nevertheless, the evidence for functional improvement remains uncertain. The pooled pain difference was modest, functional outcomes were supported by few studies, and the available evidence does not establish durable benefit beyond the reported follow-up periods. Further high-quality multicenter trials are needed to confirm long-term efficacy, clarify functional benefits, and optimize treatment protocols.</p>Systematic review registration<p>crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251271276, Identifier: CRD420251271276.</p>