Spinal Facet Injection
A spinal facet injection, also known as a lumbar facet joint block, is a procedure that involves injecting a local anesthetic or steroid mixture into the facet joints of the spine. Facet joints are the small joints located on either side of each vertebra that connect it, allowing the spine to bend and twist.
When is the procedure recommended?
The goal of the injection is to relieve pain and improve spine motion. The procedure can be diagnostic, to determine if the pain is coming from the facet joints, or therapeutic, to treat the pain itself. Facet injections are often used to treat patients with back pain caused by arthritic changes or mechanical low back pain.
How is the procedure performed?
During the procedure, our interventional radiologist will use fluoroscopy to ensure the needle is correctly placed before injecting the anesthetic or steroid mixture. The injection itself only takes a few minutes, and patients can usually return to normal activities the following day.
What are the benefits?
- Provides temporary pain relief with an anesthetic, and longer-term pain relief with a corticosteroid that reduces inflammation.
- Helps decrease inflammation caused by arthritis and joint degeneration, which can lead to greater mobility.
- Assists physicians in determining the cause of back or neck pain for treatment plans.
- Adress the root cause of pain and promote long-term relief, when used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy, chiropractic care, or rehabilitative exercises.
