Facet Joint Injection

What is a Facet Joint?

Bones called vertebrae stack to form the spine. Each vertebra has facets (flat surfaces) where the vertebrae fit together. These surfaces touch and form a facet joint on each side of the vertebrae. Facet joints can become inflamed (swollen and irritated). This may cause pain in your neck or back.

What is a Facet Joint Injection?

During this procedure, medication is injected into the inflamed facet joint. The medication helps numb the joint, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. Pain relief from the injection should last for weeks to months. If the pain returns, a repeat injection or different type of injection may be needed.

Easing Neck or Back Pain

Neck or back pain may be caused by a problem with the facet joints in your spine. If so, a facet joint injection may help. Medication is injected into certain facet joints. The injection can help pinpoint problem joints. It may also relieve pain.

Getting Ready for Treatment

• At least a week before treatment, tell your dr. Aji what medications, herbs, or supplements you take (including pain relievers and drugs to prevents blood clots). Ask whether you should stop taking any of them before treatment.

• Tell your dr. Aji if you are pregnant or if you are allergic to any medications.

• Stop eating or drinking as directed before your injection.

• Have a friend or family member ready to drive you home after the injection.

Your Injection Experience

The injection is done in a hospital or surgery center. You’ll be asked to fill out some forms, including a consent form.

During The Procedure

You may be given an IV (intravenous) line in your arm or hand. To help you relax, you may be given medication through the IV line. You will be positioned on an exam table. For the treatment:

• The skin over the injection site is cleaned. It is then numbed with anesthetic.

• Fluoroscopy (x-ray imaging) may be used to help dr. Aji see your spine. If so, a contrast fluid may be injected into the affected area.

• The injection is given. It likely contains medication to numb the area and another to reduce inflammation.

• You can often go home in about an hour. Have an adult relative or friend drive you.

After the Procedure

The anesthetic wears off in a few hours. When it does, your neck or back may feel more sore than usual. This is normal. Take it easy for the rest of the day. The steroids most often begin to work in about 2 to 4 days. Ask dr. Aji when it’s okay to go back to work and driving.

When to Call dr. Aji

Call dr. Aji If you have:

• Severe headaches

• Fever of 38 degrees Celcius or higher

• Redness or drainage at the injection site

• Weakness in your arms or legs

Risks and Complications

The procedure is considered safe, but risks include:

• Prolonged increase in pain

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Allergic reaction

• Nerve damage (very rare)

Back to Daily Life

Pain relief from facet joint injections can let you get back to enjoying everyday activities. In some cases, though, the injection may not relieve all pain. Repeat injections in the same place or injections into other joints may be needed. Or, another type of treatment may be recommended. Dr. Aji can discuss with you.