Facet Joint Injection Procedures: What to Expect

Doctors often use facet joint injections to both diagnose and treat spine-related discomfort. These injections target the small joints in the spine, helping to temporarily relieve inflammation or irritation that may be causing pain. By reducing swelling and improving mobility, facet joint procedures can provide relief for patients dealing with chronic spinal issues. Understanding what happens during the procedure, as well as what to expect afterward, can help individuals feel more confident, informed, and prepared for the experience.

The Purpose of Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injection procedures serve two main purposes. First, they help identify the source of discomfort by diagnosing whether the pain originates from the facet joints. Second, they deliver temporary relief by reducing inflammation in the affected joint. The injected solution typically contains a combination of a local anesthetic and an anti-inflammatory medication, often corticosteroids. This approach allows health providers to assess potential long-term treatment paths while providing short-term relief. 

Steps in the Procedure

Facet joint injection procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis and do not require an overnight hospital stay. The process typically involves the following steps:

1. Preparation: Patients are asked to lie in a specific position, often on their stomach, to give the physician access to their spine. The targeted area is cleaned with an antiseptic solution, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin and surrounding tissue.
2. Imaging Guidance: The physician uses fluoroscopy, a type of real-time X-ray, to guide the needle accurately into the facet joint. A small amount of contrast dye may be injected to confirm the needle’s placement.
3. Medication Injection: Once the needle is positioned correctly, the physician administers a mixture of a local anesthetic and corticosteroid. Patients may feel slight pressure or discomfort during this step, but the local anesthetic helps minimize any pain.

The entire procedure usually takes less than 30 minutes, after which patients are observed briefly before being discharged.

After the Injection

After the procedure, patients often feel immediate relief from the local anesthetic, though this effect usually fades within a few hours. The anti-inflammatory medication typically starts working after a few days. Some patients experience soreness at the injection site, which cold compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers, as recommended by a healthcare provider, can help manage.

Healthcare providers usually recommend avoiding strenuous activities for the first 24 to 48 hours, but most patients can quickly resume their normal daily routines. Following specific aftercare instructions is key for the best recovery. Results may vary, and regular check-ins with your healthcare provider can help assess the injection’s effectiveness.

Communicating With Your Healthcare Team

Communicating openly with your healthcare team plays a valuable role in a successful treatment experience. Share your symptoms, previous treatments, and any concerns about the procedure to help determine if the facet joint injection suits your needs. Providers may recommend additional diagnostic tests or treatments based on the injection results.

Finding Relief With Professional Care

Facet joint procedures provide a minimally invasive way to manage discomfort from spinal conditions. Understanding the process from preparation to recovery helps patients feel confident in their treatment plan. Following post-procedure instructions from your healthcare professional improves the chances of a positive outcome. Consult your provider for personalized advice and guidance about your condition.