Conditions & Treatments

Facet Joint Injections

What Are Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections are minimally invasive procedures used to help diagnose and treat pain originating from the small joints along the spine. These joints, called facet joints, connect the vertebrae and help provide stability while allowing the spine to bend and twist.

Each facet joint is surrounded by a capsule containing lubricating fluid and is lined with cartilage that helps the bones move smoothly. When these joints become inflamed or damaged, they can cause pain and stiffness in the neck or back.

Facet joint injections deliver medication directly into the affected joint. They typically contain a local anesthetic to temporarily numb the area and may include a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief.

What Causes Facet Joint Pain?

Facet joint pain can develop when the joints become irritated, inflamed, or damaged. Common causes and contributing factors include:

Age-related wear and degeneration of the spinal joints
Osteoarthritis affecting the facet joints
Injuries or trauma to the spine
Repetitive bending, twisting, or other movements that place stress on the joints
Changes in spinal alignment or instability

These conditions can irritate the joints and surrounding nerves, contributing to persistent neck or back pain.

What Are the Symptoms of Facet Joint Pain?

Symptoms depend on the location of the affected joints and the severity of inflammation or degeneration. Common symptoms may include:

Localized neck or back pain
Stiffness and reduced spinal flexibility
Pain that worsens with bending backward, twisting, or prolonged standing
Pain that spreads into the shoulders, buttocks, or upper thighs
Tenderness near the affected joints
Difficulty performing everyday activities because of discomfort

Facet joint pain generally does not cause the numbness or weakness associated with significant spinal nerve compression. Your doctor will evaluate your symptoms to identify the source of your pain.

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When Are Facet Joint Injections Recommended?

Facet joint injections may be recommended for patients experiencing persistent neck or back pain that may be caused by inflammation or degeneration of the facet joints. They are often considered when symptoms have not improved with conservative treatments, such as medication, physical therapy, or activity modifications.

Injections may also help determine if a particular facet joint is contributing to a patient's pain. Temporary relief following an injection can provide useful diagnostic information and help guide additional treatment.

What Happens During a Facet Joint Injection?

Facet joint injections are typically performed as outpatient procedures. You will lie on a treatment table, and the skin over the injection site will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.

Using imaging guidance, such as fluoroscopy (real-time X-ray), your doctor carefully directs a thin needle into the targeted facet joint. A small amount of contrast dye may be used to confirm needle placement before the medication is injected.

The procedure generally takes a short time, although the total appointment may be longer to allow for preparation and monitoring.

What Can You Expect After a Facet Joint Injection?

You may experience temporary soreness at the injection site. Some patients notice immediate relief from the local anesthetic, while the anti-inflammatory medication may take several days to begin working.

The amount and duration of relief vary depending on the underlying condition and individual response to treatment. Your doctor will provide instructions about activity restrictions, medications, and when to resume normal activities.

What Are the Risks of Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections are generally considered safe, but complications are possible. Potential risks include bleeding, infection, allergic reactions, temporary increases in pain, and nerve injury. Side effects related to corticosteroid medication may also occur.

Your doctor will review your medical history, explain the potential risks and benefits, and determine if the procedure is appropriate for you.

For specialized spine care in Boca Raton, Deerfield Beach, and Plantation, Florida, please call (561) 549-9090 or request an appointment online.