Introduction
Facet injections are non-surgical treatments aimed at alleviating pain and inflammation in the facet joints of the spine. These joints, located at the top and bottom of each vertebra, connect the vertebrae, enabling movement of the spine. By targeting pain originating from these joints, facet injections can help relieve discomfort in the neck, lower back, and legs.
Facet pain and inflammation can arise from conditions such as spinal stenosis, spondylolysis, sciatica, arthritis, and herniated discs. If you are experiencing spine-related pain that does not improve with conservative treatments, you might be a suitable candidate for facet injections. The procedure involves injecting a corticosteroid and anesthetic medication into the facet joint capsule or surrounding tissues. Additionally, facet injections can be used diagnostically to identify whether your pain is indeed stemming from the facet joints.
Treatment
Facet joint injections are typically administered as an outpatient procedure. This treatment often requires fluoroscopy and can be performed in a doctor's office, outpatient center, or hospital. It is advisable to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the facility on the day of your injection.
During the procedure, you will wear an examination gown and lie face down on the examination table. The injection site will be cleaned and numbed, and you may receive sedation or remain awake throughout the process.
Your doctor will utilize a C-arm fluoroscope, an imaging device, to accurately guide the injection. The medication will be injected directly into the facet joint capsule. Following the procedure, you should be able to walk immediately, although it's recommended to take it easy for a few days.
Facet injections are effective for approximately 50% of patients. They can provide relief for several days to months, and if successful, the procedure may be repeated up to three times a year.
