Facet Joint Injection and Block
Preparation
Welcome to our pain management center, where we are committed to providing a comprehensive range of services to help you manage and alleviate your chronic pain. Among the specialized treatments we offer, Facet Joint Injection and Block is a procedure designed to target and relieve pain originating from the facet joints in your spine. In this detailed guide, we will explore the intricacies of this procedure, its benefits, and what you can expect during each stage of the process.
Understanding Facet Joint Injection and Block
Facet joints are small, synovial joints that connect the vertebrae in your spine. Over time, these joints can become a source of pain due to arthritis, injury, or wear and tear. Facet Joint Injection and Block is a minimally invasive procedure that involves injecting a mixture of anti-inflammatory medications and anesthetics directly into the affected facet joint or its surrounding tissues. The goal is to alleviate pain and improve your mobility.
Procedure Overview
Initial Assessment
Before undergoing the procedure, our experienced medical team will conduct a comprehensive evaluation of your medical history, symptoms, and any relevant imaging studies. This evaluation helps us determine if Facet Joint Injection and Block is the right course of action for you.
Preparation
On the day of the procedure, you will be comfortably positioned on an examination table. The injection site is cleansed and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. Local anesthesia is administered to numb the skin and tissues around the injection site. This ensures your comfort during the procedure.
Fluoroscopic Guidance
To ensure accurate needle placement, real-time X-ray imaging (fluoroscopy) is used. This guidance allows for precise positioning of the needle within the facet joint or the nearby nerve structures.
Injection
Once the needle is in the correct position, the medication mixture is injected. This mixture typically includes anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and anesthetics to provide pain relief.
Recovery and Follow-Up
Our medical team will provide you with post-procedure instructions and recommendations for activities. A follow-up appointment will be scheduled to assess your progress and determine the effectiveness of the injection.
Benefits of Facet Joint Injection and Block
Minimally Invasive
The procedure involves a small needle and typically requires only a short recovery period.
Diagnostic Value
In addition to providing pain relief, Facet Joint Injection and Block can also serve a diagnostic purpose. If your pain is significantly reduced after the injection, it confirms that the facet joint is the source of your discomfort.
Improved Mobility
By reducing pain and inflammation in the facet joint, this procedure can help you regain lost mobility and enhance your quality of life.
Quick Recovery
After the injection, you may experience mild soreness at the injection site. This is normal and should resolve within a few days. It’s important to monitor your pain levels and any changes in your symptoms.