Facet Injection

Patients suffering from pain originating from a nerve ending related to one of the spinal joints might choose to undergo a facet injection to alleviate their symptoms. This minimally invasive procedure involves the injection of a nerve-blocking agent directly into the area around the nerve suspected to be causing the pain. A fluoroscope is used by the administering technician to follow the path of the needle on a video monitor. The purpose of the procedure is two-fold. One, the anesthetic and corticosteroid medication can alleviate any pain associated with the nerve damage. And two, the nerve-blocking agent can serve a diagnostic function, allowing the doctor to confirm that the suspected nerve is, in fact, causing the pain.

Conditions Treated by Facet Injection

Degeneration of the facet joint – which is where vertebrae meet and articulate – is the primary condition leading to the need for a facet injection. This degeneration typically is a natural result of years of wear and tear on the spine, although osteoarthritis or a traumatic injury also can exacerbate the problem. Other conditions that could call for a facet injection include:

• Spinal stenosis
• Vertebral fracture
• Sciatica
• Herniated disc
• Spinal arthritis
• Postoperative pain

When a Facet Injection is Not Enough

A facet injection is one of several conservative treatment methods doctors employ to combat neck and back pain. Others are pain medication, physical therapy, stretching, and exercise. If chronic pain persists after weeks or months of conservative treatment, contact Laser Spine Institute to learn how a minimally invasive, outpatient procedure performed using advanced, endoscopic technology can help you rediscover your life without back and neck pain.