Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injections are a procedure whereby a small amount of local anaesthetic and steroid is injected into one or more facet joints in the neck or back.

Although there are occasions where facet joint injections are indicated, in general the doctors at the Northern Pain Centre do not perform them.

Diagnostic medial branch blocks (see cervical and lumbar medial branch blocks) are more accurate than facet joint injections in diagnosing facet joint pain, and radiofrequency facet denervation (see radiofrequency cervical and lumbar facet joint denervation) is more effective as a long-term treatment for facet joint pain.

Some patients may have undergone facet joint injections previously, often performed by a radiologist. These facet joint injections can provide useful information regarding your pain. If your pain improved following these injections, even for a few hours, it may be an indication that the facet joints are a significant cause of your pain and radiofrequency facet joint denervation may provide an effective long term treatment for your back or neck pain.

Please discuss with your GP or contact us directly for more information if this situation applies to you.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Northern Pain Centre can facilitate you obtaining a second opinion. Please discuss this with us.

 

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Disclaimer
The contents contained within this page are not a substitute for your own independent health professional’s advice, diagnosis or treatment. Northern Pain Centre treats every patient’s condition individually and provides evidence-based treatments to suit this.  Treatment’s may vary based on this individual assessment and your medical history.  If you would like to find out whether our treatments are suitable for your specific condition, please arrange a consultation with one of our team.  Please note there are risks associated with any procedure, and some are more common than others.  You should discuss the risks associated with any recommended treatment with your doctor. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner. Northern Pain Centre can facilitate you obtaining a second opinion. Please discuss this with us.