Facet injections are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and relieve pain caused by facet joint syndrome. These injections deliver a combination of a local anesthetic and an anti-inflammatory steroid directly into the facet joints or the surrounding nerve endings. The anesthetic provides immediate but temporary pain relief, while the steroid works to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief. Facet injections are commonly performed in the cervical (neck), thoracic (mid-back), or lumbar (lower back) spine, depending on the location of the pain. The procedure is typically guided by fluoroscopy (a type of live X-ray) to ensure precise placement of the medication.
Beyond pain relief, facet injections can also serve a diagnostic purpose. If a patient experiences significant temporary relief after the anesthetic portion of the injection, it confirms that the facet joints are the source of pain. This information helps doctors determine the most effective treatment plan moving forward. While the effects of facet injections vary from person to person, some experience relief for weeks or even months. If the pain returns, additional injections or other treatment options may be considered to manage symptoms effectively.
