What is a Facet Joint Injection?
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Facet Joint Injections is a specialized procedure designed to alleviate pain and inflammation in the small joints of the spine, known as facet joints. It’s a minimally invasive procedure where medication, such as a corticosteroid or anaesthetic, is injected directly into the facet joint under X-ray or fluoroscopic guidance. The injection targets the source of pain within the facet joint, reducing inflammation and relieving the affected area. Facet joint injections can be both diagnostic, helping to identify the source of pain, and therapeutic, providing pain relief and improving function.
1. Chronic or recurring back pain, especially to one side of the spine or specific back areas
2. Pain that worsens with specific movements or activities, such as twisting or bending backwards
3. Pain that radiates into the buttocks, hips or thighs, indicating potential facet joint involvement
4. Previous treatments like medication, physical therapy, or other injections have provided limited relief
What does a Facet Joint Injection treat?
Facet joint pain :
Facet joint pain is pain and inflammation in the small joints of the spine caused by arthritis, injury, or degeneration.
Facet joint syndrome :
Chronic pain and stiffness in the spine due to facet joint dysfunction.
Spinal arthritis :
Inflammation and facet joint degeneration contribute to back pain.
Whiplash injuries :
Facet joint injections may help alleviate pain and stiffness following a whiplash injury to the neck or upper back.