Optimization of solid needles for percutaneous needle electrolysis in invasive physiotherapy: ex vivo study

Preclinical and Experimental Laboratory Studies Open access 14-10-2025 — Updated on 14-10-2025

Vol. 1 No. 1 (2025) Pages: e14 https://doi.org/10.63360/ipmm.v1.e14

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Abstract

Introduction: Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE) is an invasive physiotherapy technique that applies a galvanic current through a solid needle to treat musculoskeletal disorders. The effectiveness of the technique depends on the properties of the needle used, including its conductivity, biocompatibility, and mechanical resistance. This study explores improvements in needle design to enhance therapeutic outcomes.

Materials and Methods: The research focuses on the evaluation of different needle materials and coatings to optimize electrical conductivity and minimize tissue damage. Experimental analysis includes testing mechanical properties, corrosion resistance, and electrical performance. The results of this study can also be applied to patient safety and comfort.

Results: Findings indicate that modifications in needle material, such as the use of stainless steel with specialized coatings, significantly improve electrical efficiency and reduce unwanted oxidation. Enhanced designs result in lower resistance, improving the precision of the electrical current application. Additionally, improvements in needle flexibility and sharpness may contribute to reducing patient discomfort.

Conclusions: The study confirms that improving the material and coating of solid needles used in PNE can improve the technique's effectiveness. Specifically, stainless steel needles with specialized coatings increase electrical conductivity, reduce oxidation, and improve durability. These modifications allow for more precise current application, minimizing tissue damage and potentially reducing patient discomfort. Future studies should focus on clinical validation and further optimization to maximize safety and therapeutic benefits.

Keywords

  • Percutaneous needle electrolysis (PNE)
  • Solid Needles
  • Invasive Physiotherapy
  • Electrotherapy
  • Needle Optimization
  • Galvanic Current
  • Musculoskeletal Treatment

Author information

  • Cesar Suárez Malanda Unit of Histology and Neurobiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus, Spain https://orcid.org/0009-0002-7915-2543
  • Manel Santafe Unit of Histology and Neurobiology, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Rovira i Virgili University, Reus, Spain https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5462-5108

    Licenciado en Medicina y Cirugía (Universidad de Barcelona, ​​1987). Doctor en Medicina y Cirugía (Universidad Rovira i Virgili, 1993). Diplomado en Microscopía Electrónica y Microanálisis (Universidad de Barcelona, ​​1990) y Diplomado en Análisis Automático de Imágenes (Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, ​​1992). Desde 1984 ha centrado su investigación en el estudio de las conexiones neuromusculares sinápticas en sus diferentes vertientes: sinaptogénesis, mecanismos de regulación de la actividad sináptica y mecanismos de adaptación, remodelación y plasticidad en el sistema nervioso periférico. Fruto de su actividad investigadora han sido: 80 publicaciones en revistas indexadas (Neurociencia y Neurología); 45 “otras publicaciones” no indexadas como libros, capítulos de libros y actas; Ha presentado más de 100 comunicaciones orales en congresos y simposios nacionales e internacionales, de las que 36 han sido conferencias invitadas y ha sido responsable de la organización de 5 congresos, simposios u otros eventos científicos. Es consultor habitual de varias revistas internacionales como Experimental Neurology, Trends in Neurosciences, Brain, European Journal of Neurology, Brain. Ha sido editor asociado del Journal of Alzheimer's Disease y de Evidence Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine. Actualmente es editor académico de Frontiers in Neuroanatomy y Frontiers in Molecular Neuroscience. Ha dirigido 10 tesis doctorales, todas ellas obteniendo la máxima calificación en su momento. Actualmente dirige 3 tesis doctorales. Actualmente es profesor de la Universidad de la Facultad de Medicina y Ciencias de la Salud (Universidad Rovira i Virgili) donde imparte docencia en los grados de medicina, fisioterapia y nutrición. Ha dirigido y/o impartido docencia en 17 asignaturas de diferentes programas de doctorado, másteres u otros cursos de postgrado, siempre en el ámbito neuromuscular. Actualmente coordina el Máster Interuniversitario en Ciencias del Sistema Nervioso: Neurotoxicología y Psicofarmacología, Fisioterapia Neuromusculoesquelética y Neurorrehabilitación.

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