A facet joint injection is an outpatient procedure that usually takes about 30 minutes to complete. A facet joint is the space where two facets meet on each side of the vertebrae. The pain from the facet joint occurs when one or more facet joints become irritated and swollen. During the procedure, the patient will lie on the procedure table while an assistant cleans the area where the injection will be. The procedure does not require sedation but the area of injection will be numbed. The performing physician will use an x-ray to help direct a small needle into the facet joint. A small amount of contrast dye is then injected into the joint to confirm the needle is in the correct position. Once confirmed, a small mixture of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication, like steroid or cortisone, is then slowly injected into the joint. After the procedure, the patient will rest before being released into the care of a family member or friend. The relief that the injection brings will vary. It depends on the medication that was used during the procedure. The injection could provide relief for several hours or for a longer period of time.
How Alabama Pain Physicians Can Help
At Alabama Pain Physicians, our goal is to better the quality of life of our patients. We take your pain seriously and strive to establish an accurate diagnosis along with a treatment plan to ultimately minimize your pain. To determine the exact cause of your pain, our physicians will perform a physical exam and use your complete medical history to help find the best treatment options suited for you. In addition to the physical exam and history, you may also need imaging studies and tests to help the physician determine the cause of your pain. Contact Alabama Pain Physicians today and let us help get you on the right tract to managing your pain.
