06 Apr A Quick Guide on What to Expect from Facet Joint Injections
Facet joint injections are a common treatment for chronic pain in the back or neck. If you’re considering this treatment, it’s important to know what to expect. In this blog post, we will discuss what facet joint injections are, how they work, and what you can expect after facet joint injection treatment. We will also provide some tips on how to prepare for your injection appointment.
What Are Facet Joint Injections?
Facet joint injections are a treatment for chronic pain in the back or neck. The injection is given into the facet joints, which are the joints that connect the vertebrae in your spine. Facet joint injections can be done with or without steroids. Steroids are anti-inflammatory medications that can help reduce pain and swelling. Facet joint injections can also be done with local anesthesia, which numbs the area around the injection site, or light sedation which helps you to feel more relaxed during the procedure.
How Do Facet Joint Injections Work?
Facet joint injections work by numbing the facet joints and reducing inflammation. This can help to relieve pain and improve mobility. Facet joint injections can be done with or without steroids, depending on your needs. Facet joint injections can also help to determine how much of your pain may be attributed to arthritis.
Learn about Using Facet Blocks For Pain Management.
What Can I Expect After Facet Joint Injections?
Facet joint injections are usually done on an outpatient basis, which means you can go home the same day. The injection itself takes only a few minutes. You may feel some discomfort, but the physician will add local anesthetic to the area. After the injection, you will be monitored for any side effects.
Most people experience relief from their pain within 20-30 minutes. These injections block the nerves going to the joint. If you get good relief in this short period of time you may be a candidate for a Radiofrequency Ablation which can provide longer-lasting relief. Otherwise, if you get significant pain relief for a long time after a facet joint injection it can be repeated as needed.
Preparing For Your Injection Appointment
There are a few things you can do to prepare for your facet joint injection appointment. First, you will need to stop taking any anti-inflammatory medications, such as ibuprofen or naproxen, for at least 24 hours before the injection. This is because these medications can interfere with the action of the steroids.
You should also avoid drinking alcohol for 24 hours before the injection. Alcohol can thin your blood and increase bleeding during the procedure.
Finally, if you are having anesthesia to help you feel more comfortable you will need to arrange for someone to drive you home after the injection. The anesthesia can cause drowsiness and impair your ability to drive.
If you have any questions about facet joint injections, be sure to ask your doctor. They will be able to answer any questions you may have. And if you don’t have a pain doctor at this time, contact us about facet joint injections in Chicago.