Radiofrequency Ablation versus Naproxen for the Management of Ankylosing Spondylitis: A Comparative Analysis

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by inflammation primarily affecting the spinal vertebrae and sacroiliac joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and progressive loss of spinal mobility. Management typically focuses on alleviating symptoms and controlling inflammation to improve patient quality of life. In this study, we compared the efficacy of two common treatment modalities: radiofrequency ablation (RFA) and naproxen. RFA is a minimally invasive procedure that targets specific nerve endings to interrupt pain signals, whereas naproxen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) used to reduce inflammation and provide symptomatic relief. Our systematic review involved a cohort of AS patients treated with either RFA or naproxen over a six-month period. Clinical outcomes were evaluated based on pain relief, functional improvement, and overall quality of life. Results demonstrated that RFA reported substantial reductions in pain intensity and improved functional outcomes compared to those treated with naproxen. These improvements in pain management were sustained for the duration of the study period. Furthermore, while naproxen effectively managed symptoms in the short term, its efficacy diminished over time, highlighting limitations in long-term pain control. In contrast, RFA offered prolonged relief, making it a viable option for sustained management of AS symptoms. The findings suggest that RFA should be considered a preferred treatment for AS patients seeking long-term pain relief and enhanced quality of life. This study contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of RFA in the management of inflammatory spinal conditions.