Understanding Facet Joint Intervention
Facet joints are small joints located at each segment of the spine that provide stability and help guide your back's motion. When these joints become inflamed due to arthritis, injury, or mechanical stress, they can cause chronic back or neck pain.
A Facet Joint Intervention (or injection) is a minimally invasive procedure where a local anesthetic and corticosteroid anti-inflammatory medication are injected directly into or around the facet joint to relieve pain and reduce inflammation.
This procedure serves two purposes: therapeutic (providing long-lasting pain relief) and diagnostic (confirming if the facet joints are the exact source of your pain).
Guided by fluoroscopy (live X-ray), our precise interventions ensure targeted delivery of medication, allowing you to return to your daily activities and participate effectively in physical therapy.
Common Symptoms Addressed
- Localized Pain: Aching in the lower back or neck.
- Movement Pain: Pain that worsens when leaning backward or twisting.
- Radiating Aches: Pain extending to shoulders, buttocks, or upper thighs (rarely past the knee).
- Morning Stiffness: Severe stiffness in the back or neck upon waking up.
- Muscle Spasms: Tightness and spasms in spinal muscles.
- Tenderness: Area over the spine feels tender to the touch.
- Postural Issues: Hunching or leaning to avoid putting pressure on the joint.
- Chronic Discomfort: Persistent pain that doesn't improve with rest or basic painkillers.
Benefits & Post-Procedure Care
Facet joint interventions offer a safe, non-surgical approach to managing spinal pain and restoring your mobility.
Following proper post-procedure guidelines is crucial for maximizing the benefits of your treatment.
Immediate Relief
Local anesthetic provides quick diagnosis and initial pain relief.
Rest and Recovery
Avoid strenuous activities for 24-48 hours post-injection.
Long-Term Management
Steroids reduce inflammation for weeks or months.
Physical Therapy
Engage in prescribed core-strengthening exercises once pain subsides.
When to Contact Us Immediately
Severe Swelling
Redness or swelling at the injection site
High Fever
Fever developing shortly after the procedure
New Weakness
Sudden numbness or weakness in arms or legs
Loss of Control
New bowel or bladder incontinence issues
Start Your Pain-Free Journey
Don't let chronic back or neck pain limit your lifestyle. Facet joint interventions can accurately diagnose the source of your pain and provide the relief you need to move comfortably again.
Our advanced minimally invasive techniques are designed to help you avoid extensive surgeries and rely less on oral pain medications.
Book your consultation today to see if Facet Joint Intervention is right for you.