Scoping Review Maps Noninvasive Neuromodulation for Chronic Pelvic Pain

A scoping review in the Bulletin of Faculty of Physical Therapy mapped the evidence on noninvasive neuromodulation for chronic pelvic pain. Led by Ana Clara Biederman de Aguiar and colleagues, the review identified 21 studies examining transcranial direct current stimulation and transcranial magnetic stimulation. The authors say these approaches appear potentially safe and conservative, but the evidence base is weighted toward preliminary work and planned trials rather than completed, high-quality randomized controlled trials. Chronic pelvic pain was defined as persistent pelvic pain lasting at least six months. The 21 included studies covered four randomized clinical trials, three pilot studies, nine protocols, two case studies, and two reviews, with substantial methodological heterogeneity.