Facet Injection / Facet Joint Injection

A facet joint injection is a relatively simple, straightforward procedure. Therefore, is usually performed in an office-based procedure suite in an ambulatory surgical center.

As with many spinal injections, facet joint injections are best performed using fluoroscopy (live X-ray) for guidance to properly target and place the needle (and to help avoid nerve injury or other injury).

What are the Benefits?

One of the biggest benefits is it can isolate the source of pain generation guiding therapy to find relief from pain and enjoy greater mobility. This is done because a mixture of local anesthetic and a corticosteroid into the facet joint. Another big benefit is it can help avoid more invasive surgery. If the pain returns, the procedure can be repeated as well.

What kind of Pain Relief can I expect?

The pain relief is often temporary to isolate the source of pain. In addition, the destruction of the facet nerve can give permanent pain relief from facet joint arthritis.

When diagnosed with pain: you should feel relief immediately from the anesthetic, but will stop in around an hour. Most insurances require two diagnostic facet injections, the next step is Radio Frequency Ablation if needed.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with a Facet Joint Injection?

Common conditions that can be treated with a facet joint injection are facet joint syndrome, facet joint arthritis, facet joint sprain or strain, degenerative disc disease, herniated disc, spondylosis, spinal stenosis, and postoperative back pain.

Is a Facet Joint Injection right for me?

Dr. Sturm will determine what is best for your situation, whether it's a Facet Joint Injection or another treatment. If you want to become a new patient of Arch Advanced Pain Management, make sure to fill out our form at our new patient enrollment page. If you are a current patient, contact our office about your pain at (636) 244-5004.