What is a Facet Joint Injection?
Facet joints are small joints between the vertebrae that provide stability and flexibility to the spine. When these joints become inflamed due to arthritis, injury, or wear and tear, they can cause significant pain. A facet joint injection involves delivering a mixture of corticosteroid and anesthetic directly into or around the affected joints to reduce inflammation and confirm the source of pain.
This procedure helps to:
- Relieve localized back or neck pain.
- Reduce inflammation in spinal joints.
- Improve spinal flexibility and mobility.
- Confirm whether the facet joint is the pain source.
- Support rehabilitation and exercise programs.
What to expect after a Facet Joint Injection?
Relief may be felt immediately due to the local anesthetic, though this may wear off within hours before the steroid takes effect. Full benefits may take several days to appear. Some soreness at the injection site is normal.
- Temporary increase in pain after injection.
- Gradual onset of pain relief.
- Mild soreness at the back or neck.
- Short outpatient recovery period.
- Pain relief lasting weeks to months.
