Facet Injections

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Physicians' Pain and Spine Specialists, PLLC

Facet Injections

Facet joints are located between each set of vertebrae in the spine from the neck to the tailbone, providing stability and allowing the spine to bend and twist. The joint contains cartilage between bones and is surrounded by a sac-like capsule that is filled with synovial fluid which provides lubrication to reduce friction between bony surfaces. A facet injection involves injecting medication into the actual facet joint – and has two purposes. First, it can be used as a diagnostic test to see if the pain is actually coming from your facet joints. Second, it can be used as a treatment to relieve inflammation and pain caused by various spine conditions.

Facet injections may be intraarticular (into the joint) or medial branch blocks (where the medication is injected onto the nerve). The procedure is performed with the use of fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance, while the patient is conscious using local anesthetic.