What are Facet Joint Injections?
Facet joint injections are minimally invasive procedures used to diagnose and relieve pain originating from the small joints of the spine known as facet joints. These joints connect the vertebrae and help stabilize the spine while allowing flexibility. When inflammation or arthritis affects these joints, it can cause chronic neck, mid-back, or lower back pain. A facet joint injection delivers a combination of a local anesthetic and corticosteroid directly into the affected joint to reduce inflammation and block pain signals.
When are Facet Joint Injections Recommended?
Facet joint injections may be recommended for patients who experience:
- Chronic neck, mid-back, or low back pain related to arthritis or spinal degeneration
- Pain that worsens with twisting, bending, or extending the spine
- Facet joint inflammation following injury or repetitive stress
- Pain after spine surgery (post-laminectomy syndrome)
- Diagnostic evaluation to confirm if the facet joints are the source of pain
How are Facet Joint Injections Performed?
The procedure is typically performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure accurate needle placement. After the skin is numbed, a small needle is inserted into the targeted facet joint. Once in position, a local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory steroid are injected. The process usually takes 15–30 minutes, and patients can go home the same day.
What to Expect During Recovery After Facet Joint Injections?
Patients may experience temporary numbness or soreness at the injection site. Pain relief may begin within a few days as inflammation subsides, with results lasting from weeks to several months. Most people resume light activities the same day and normal activities within 24 hours.
What are the Risks of Facet Joint Injections?
- Temporary soreness or mild discomfort at the injection site
- Allergic reaction to medication (rare)
- Infection or bleeding (very uncommon)
- Short-term increase in pain before improvement
What are the Benefits of Facet Joint Injections?
- Precise, targeted pain relief
- Reduced inflammation in the affected spinal joints
- Improved flexibility and mobility
- Quick outpatient procedure with minimal downtime
- Can help identify the exact source of spinal pain for future treatment
