TREATMENT OVERVIEW
Facet Joint Injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to both diagnose and treat neck or back pain caused by inflammation of the facet joints. These small, stabilizing joints can become arthritic and painful over time. By delivering medication directly to the source, we can confirm the joint is the problem and provide significant pain relief.
PROCEDURE DETAILS
To begin, you will be positioned comfortably on your stomach. The skin over the treatment area in your neck or back is then cleaned, and a local anesthetic is used to numb the site, ensuring minimal discomfort during the procedure.
Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray) for guidance, your physician will carefully direct a thin needle to the target. The needle can be placed either directly inside the facet joint capsule or alongside the small nerves (medial branches) that transmit pain signals from the joint.
Once the needle is precisely positioned, a small amount of contrast dye is injected to confirm correct placement. Following this, a mixture of a local anesthetic and a long-lasting corticosteroid is administered. The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief for diagnostic purposes, while the steroid reduces inflammation for therapeutic relief.
TREATMENT ADVANTAGES
Facet Joint Injections are a vital tool for managing axial spine pain, offering a safe and effective way to identify the source of your discomfort and provide lasting relief.
The immediate relief from the anesthetic is the most reliable way to confirm that a specific facet joint is the true source of your back or neck pain.
Medication is delivered directly to the arthritic and inflamed joint, providing more effective and faster relief than oral medications that affect the entire body.
The corticosteroid directly calms the inflammation within the joint capsule, which can significantly reduce chronic pain and stiffness.
By alleviating pain and stiffness in the spinal joints, this procedure can improve your range of motion, making daily activities easier and more comfortable.
This non-surgical treatment allows you to avoid the risks and lengthy recovery associated with more invasive procedures like spinal fusion surgery.
A successful injection indicates you may be an excellent candidate for a longer-lasting treatment like Medial Branch Radiofrequency Ablation.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Facet joint injections are considered a very safe and low-risk procedure. Complications are rare, and our team takes every precaution to ensure your safety. Most side effects are minor and resolve within a few days.
Important: By providing a full medical history and a list of your current medications and allergies, you can help us ensure the procedure is as safe as possible for you.
PREPARATION GUIDE
Proper preparation is key to a successful and smooth procedure. Please review the following important steps to ensure you are ready for your appointment.
Ensure you have a thorough review with Dr. Fura. Disclose all allergies, especially to medications like contrast dye.
Stop blood thinners and other specific medications as instructed by Dr. Fura before your procedure.
Do not eat or drink after midnight. You must arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home afterward.
Wear comfortable, loose clothing. Avoid jewelry and leave valuables at home for safekeeping.
RECOVERY GUIDE
Recovery from a facet joint injection is quick, but paying attention to your symptoms afterward is crucial for determining the next steps in your care plan.
Rest for the remainder of the day, but you don't need to stay in bed. Avoid driving. Critically, you must track your pain levels for the first 6-8 hours and note the percentage of relief.
The numbing medication will have worn off, and it's common for your usual pain to return. You may feel some soreness at the injection site. You can resume light activities.
The steroid's anti-inflammatory effect will start to build. You should notice a gradual decrease in your pain levels. This therapeutic relief can last for several months.
At your follow-up, you'll discuss both the diagnostic and therapeutic results of your injection. This will determine the next steps, such as physical therapy or radiofrequency ablation.
Please don't hesitate to reach out and request an appointment. We look forward to meeting with you, addressing your concerns, and working together to enhance your quality of life.