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Facet joint injection
A facet joint block or injection is a minimally invasive procedure in which a physician injects a small amount of local anesthetic and/or medication to numb a facet joint and provide pain relief.
who is a candidate?
Individuals with the following symptoms or conditions may benefit
- Spinal Arthritis
- Back Pain due to injury
- Back pain due to mechanical stress
- Cervical Facet joint pain in head, neck, or shoulders
- Thoracic Facet joint pain in chest and upper back
- Lumbar Facet joint pain in lower back, hips, or buttocks
what to expect
During the procedure
The Facet Joint Injection will be done in a procedure room with the help from a fluoroscopy(live X-Ray). Guided by real-time x-ray images, the physician will insert the needle through the skin and into the facet joint being treated. A small mixture of anesthetic and steroid medication is slowly injected into the joint. The entire procedure is usually completed within 30 minutes.
After the procedure
You may feel sore at the area of the needle insertion for a few days. You may apply ice or a cold pack to the injection site and your doctor may prescribe pain relief medication if you have significant pain. You should avoid strenuous activities and driving for 24 hours.
What are the risk?
As with any procedure involving a needle, there is a rare chance of infection, bleeding, allergic reaction and nerve damage. Complications are extremely rare. Talk with your provider if you have specific questions about the risk of your procedure.
preparing for your procedure
Clothing
Dress in loose, comfortable clothing, and leave jewelry and other valuables at home.
Driver
If you are being sedated you will need a driver for after the procedure.
Fasting
If you are scheduled to be sedated, you must fast for 8 hours before the procedure.
Medications
If you take medications for high blood pressure or any kind of heart condition, please take your medications as normal with a small sip of water.
Blood Thinners
If you take aspirin or any blood thinning medication you will need to stop taking it for 2-7 days before your procedure. Discuss the risks involved with the physician who prescribes your blood thinner. Restart the blood thinner the day after your procedure.
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