Radiofrequency and Methylprednisolone in Treatment of Lower Back Pain Caused by Facet Joint Syndrome: Comparison of the Outcomes

INTRODUCTION: In this trial we have discussed the outcomes of radiofrequency ablation and methylprednisolone treatment in cases diagnosed with facet syndrome; and effects of treatment modality on quality of life is evaluated by visual analogue scale and Oswestry Disability Index. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective, study was conducted with 100 patients with diagnosis of facet joint syndrome. Patients, benefited from diagnostic block, were separated into two groups, with 50 cases in each. In Group 1, 40 mg of methylprednisolone acetate were injected into each level. In Group 2, radiofrequency needle was used to apply RF to the facet joint. RESULTS: Demographic characteristics of patients were similar (P > 0.05). VAS values of the patients in Group 1 were significantly lower than the values prior to treatment (P < 0.05). Similarly, VAS values of the patients in Group 2 were also significantly lower than the values prior to treatment (P < 0.05). When VAS scores of the patients in Group 2 at 3(rd) and 6(th) months were compared with scores of the patients in Group 1, significant differences were also observed (P < 0.01). ODI results of the patients in Group 1 were significantly lower than the values prior to treatment (P < 0.05). Additionally ODI scores of the patients in Group 1 on 9(th) and 12(th) months are recorded as significantly lower. CONCLUSION: We consider that the steroid injection should be used as the first choice of treatment before the RF methods to be used in patients with back pain, caused by facet articulation pathology, if there are no contraindications.