Fig. 3

Longitudinal changes in pain scores (VAS) over 24 months. This figure displays the mean VAS scores for both the stSCS and bPRF groups at baseline and subsequent follow-up intervals (1, 3, 6, 12, 18, and 24 months). Error bars represent standard deviations. The graph highlights that, while both groups showed significant short-term pain relief, the stSCS group maintained superior pain control over the long term (p < 0.05 from 6 months onward). Asterisks denote statistically significant differences between groups at the corresponding time points