25 Jul Facet Joint Injection to Treat Chronic Neck and Back Pain
A facet joint injection is an injection of an anti-inflammatory steroid in the facet joints between the vertebrae in the spine. These joints can become inflamed due to degenerative conditions and injury.
Facet syndrome occurs when one or more of these joints become inflamed or irritated. Arthritis occurs when the cartilage lining the joint surface shrinks and wears thin, causing stress on the bone (bone spurs), inflammation, and enlargement of the joint.
In case of lower back facet joints, the pain affects the lower back and radiates down the back of the buttocks and upper thighs. In case of facet joints of the neck, there is pain in the neck and it radiates across the neck and shoulders.
Facet Joint Injection
The injection consists of a mixture of local anesthetic and steroid medication. A small amount of local anesthetic is injected through a very small needle. Very small needles are placed within the joint capsule and a small volume (usually about 1 mL) of the medication is placed in each joint. The procedure lasts not more than 30 minutes.
Pain relief can be experienced starting within a day or two of the procedure and will last up to several months.
If you experienced pain relief from the injection for a reasonable period of time, your doctor may recommend a second injection when the effects of the first one wear off.
To learn more about facet joint injection and block or to schedule an appointment with the top back pain treatment specialist in Chicago, call Illinois Pain Institute at 888-925-5189 TODAY.