Back pain is one of the most common health problems worldwide, affecting millions of people every day. While medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes often help, some individuals continue to struggle with persistent pain. For these patients, interventional procedures such as facet joint injections may provide an effective, non-surgical option.
What Are Facet Joints?
Facet joints are small stabilizing joints located between the vertebrae of the spine. They provide flexibility and smooth movement while preventing excessive strain. When these joints become irritated, inflamed, or arthritic, they can cause significant back or neck pain.
What Is a Facet Joint Injection?
A facet joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure that delivers a local anesthetic, and sometimes a corticosteroid, directly into the affected joint or over the small nerves that supply the joint. These injections serve two main purposes:
- Diagnostic Block – If pain is relieved after the injection, it confirms that the facet joint is the likely source of discomfort.
- Therapeutic Injection – Once diagnosis is established, injections (with or without steroids) may provide pain relief lasting from several weeks to a few months.
Who Can Benefit?
Facet joint injections may be recommended for patients with:
- Chronic back or neck pain not relieved by conservative treatment
- Facet joint arthritis or degeneration
- Pain related to spinal injury or repetitive stress
- Localized pain that worsens with twisting or bending
The Procedure: What to Expect
Facet joint injections are usually performed on an outpatient basis. Here’s what typically happens:
- Preparation – You will lie on a procedure table, and the skin over the target area will be cleaned and numbed.
- Guidance – Using fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), the physician carefully directs a thin needle into the target facet joint or near the nerve.
- Recovery – Patients are observed briefly and usually go home the same day.
Most patients experience temporary numbness or immediate relief from anesthetic.
Diagnostic blocks usually provide short-term relief (up to 2 weeks), while therapeutic injections may relieve pain for an average of 3 months. Steroids, when used, may also help reduce inflammation. Nerve blocks are often considered when radiofrequency treatment is not appropriate.
Benefits of Facet Joint Injections
- Non-surgical and minimally invasive
- Short recovery time
- Provide both diagnosis and treatment
- May reduce reliance on long-term pain medications
- Can improve participation in physical therapy and daily activities
Risks and Considerations
Facet joint injections are generally safe, but as with any procedure, risks exist. These may include infection, bleeding, allergic reaction, or temporary discomfort at the injection site. Not all patients experience long-term relief, and repeat injections may be necessary.
Combining with Other Therapies
Facet joint injections are most effective when combined with a comprehensive pain management plan. This may include:
- Physical therapy
- Weight management
- Posture correction
- Regular exercise and stretching
Is It Right for You?
If chronic back or neck pain is affecting your quality of life and conservative treatments have not worked, a facet joint injection may be a worthwhile option. Speak with a spine or pain specialist at Pain Management Centers of America to determine whether this treatment is appropriate for your condition and health goals.