Introduction
Facet joint injections is a medical procedure aimed at alleviating back or neck pain associated with swelling or facet joint injury. These joints, found between the vertebrae in the spine, can cause discomfort when they swell or sustain and injury.
How It Works
During a facet joint injection, our ASCPM practitioners use a small needle to deliver a combination of numbing medication and a corticosteroid directly into the facet joint. The numbing medication provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid helps to reduce inflammation, providing longer-lasting relief from discomfort.
The injection process is guided by imaging technology, such as X-ray or fluoroscopy, to ensure precise and safe delivery of the medication to the targeted facet joint.
Benefits
Facet joint injections offer significant pain relief for several weeks or months after the procedure. By targeting the source of pain directly at the joints, these injections can effectively reduce inflammation and alleviate discomfort in the back or neck area. This can lead to improved mobility and overall quality of life for individuals experiencing facet joint-related pain.
About the Procedure
This procedure typically begins with a consultation with a healthcare professional to assess the patient’s condition and determine the appropriate treatment plan. During the procedure, the patient may be positioned lying face down or sitting upright. This depends on the location of the affected facet joint. The injection site is made clean, and a local anesthetic may be applied to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Using imaging technology for guidance, the physician carefully inserts a small needle into the targeted joint and administers the medication. After the injection, patients may experience some temporary soreness or numbness at the injection site, but this typically resolves quickly. It is essential to follow any post-procedure instructions to optimize the benefits of this procedure. Make sure to review your instructions and to ask any questions.
