Request an Appointment

Facet Joint Injection

Facet joint injections are a safe and effective treatment used to relieve pain originating from the small joints along the spine known as the facet joints. These joints connect the vertebrae and allow the spine to bend, twist, and support weight. Over time or due to injury, these joints can become inflamed or arthritic, leading to chronic pain in the neck, middle back, or lower back. Facet joint injections offer targeted relief by delivering medication directly into the source of the inflammation.

This minimally invasive procedure is commonly used for both diagnostic and therapeutic purposes. If the injection provides significant pain relief, it confirms that the facet joints are the source of the pain. In many cases, this treatment provides long-lasting benefits, especially when used in combination with physical therapy or other interventional procedures.

What Conditions Are Treated with Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections are especially useful in treating localized spinal pain that is not caused by disc herniation or spinal stenosis. Common conditions include:

  • Facet joint syndrome – Pain caused by wear and tear or injury to the facet joints.
  • Spinal osteoarthritis – Degeneration of cartilage within the facet joints, often due to aging.
  • Degenerative disc disease – As discs lose height and hydration, extra stress can affect nearby facet joints.
  • Post-surgical spinal pain – Facet joint pain can persist or develop following spinal surgery.
  • Mechanical back or neck pain – Pain that worsens with movement but doesn’t radiate down the arms or legs.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Facet joint injections are performed under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure precision. After the skin is cleaned and numbed, a thin needle is carefully guided into the affected facet joint. Once the needle is in place, a mixture of a local anesthetic and corticosteroid is injected to reduce inflammation and block pain signals.

The procedure takes approximately 10 to 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Patients are typically monitored briefly after the injection and can return home the same day. Some may experience relief within a few hours, while others may notice improvement over the next few days.

Duration and Effectiveness of Pain Relief

Pain relief from a facet joint injection can last from several days to several months. The initial injection may be used to confirm the source of the pain, and if effective, additional injections or longer-lasting treatments like medial branch blocks or radiofrequency facet denervation may be recommended.

Facet joint injections are often part of a comprehensive pain management plan that may include physical therapy, activity modification, and lifestyle changes.

Benefits of Facet Joint Injections

  • Direct, targeted relief of spinal joint pain
  • Minimally invasive with no surgical downtime
  • Helps confirm the cause of back or neck pain
  • Can be repeated if necessary
  • May delay or prevent the need for surgery

Why Choose Ascent Pain for Your Care?

At Ascent Pain, our team of board-certified specialists uses advanced imaging and interventional techniques to ensure that every injection is precise and effective. If you’re experiencing chronic spine pain and want lasting relief, facet joint injections may be a powerful first step in your treatment journey.

Call Ascent Pain at (504) 249-7576 or fill out our online form to request an appointment and take the first step toward personalized, long-term relief.