Facet joint steroid injections
If you need a Facet joint steroid injection, please Schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic specialists as soon as possible.
What Are Facet joint steroid injections?
Doctors use facet joint steroid injections, also referred to as facet joint injections or facet blocks, as a minimally invasive technique to diagnose and treat pain stemming from the facet joints in the spine. These facet joints, situated between the vertebrae, aid movement and bolster spinal stability.
During the injection, a local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication are injected directly into the affected facet joint or joints under guidance from fluoroscopy or ultrasound by specialists. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid helps reduce inflammation and provides longer-lasting relief.
Doctors typically administer the injection on an outpatient basis, and the procedure lasts only a few minutes. Patients may receive a sedative or local anesthesia to reduce discomfort during the procedure. Following the injection, physicians moniter patients briefly before being discharged to return home.
These injections can provide temporary pain relief and help determine if the facet joints are the source of the pain. Doctors frequently utilize them to address conditions like facet joint arthritis, facet joint syndrome, or facet joint-related back or neck pain. Additionally, these injections serve as a diagnostic tool to confirm the source of the pain before exploring other treatment options.
It deems crucial to recognize that facet joint steroid injections do not cure the underlying condition causing the pain. Instead, they offer temporary relief and can be repeated as necessary. The effectiveness of the injections varies among patients, with some experiencing more substantial and long-lasting pain relief than others.
Facet Joint Steroid Injections Procedure
Facet joint steroid injections provide relief for those suffering from chronic back pain due to inflammation. During the procedure, a doctor uses fluoroscopy (live X-ray) to accurately guide a needle into the targeted facet joint in the spine. Once the needle is properly positioned, the doctor injects a corticosteroid mixed with a local anesthetic. The corticosteroid reduces inflammation, while the anesthetic provides immediate pain relief.
The procedure typically takes 15 to 30 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis. Patients may feel slight pressure or discomfort during the injection, but this usually deems minimal. After the injection, physicians moniter patients briefly before being allowed to go home.
Most patients experience pain relief within a few days, which can last from several weeks to several months. These injections not only alleviate pain but also help diagnose the specific source of back pain, making them a valuable tool in managing facet joint arthritis.
Facet Joint Steroid Injections Risks
As with any medical procedure, facet joint steroid injections carry some risks, including infection, bleeding, nerve damage, or an allergic reaction to the medication. It’s essential for patients to understand these potential risks before undergoing the procedure. During the initial consultation, the healthcare professional will thoroughly discuss the risks and benefits, ensuring the patient has a clear understanding.
The decision to proceed with the injection involves a detailed evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and imaging studies. The healthcare provider will assess whether the patient’s condition is likely to benefit from the injection. They consider factors such as the severity of the pain, previous treatments, and overall health status.
This careful assessment ensures that the procedure is appropriate and tailored to the patient’s specific needs. Open communication between the patient and healthcare provider is crucial to making an informed decision. With proper evaluation and discussion, facet joint steroid injections can be a safe and effective treatment option for managing chronic back pain.
Facet Joint Steroid Injections Recovery
Recovery from facet joint steroid injections involves several steps to ensure optimal healing and pain relief. Immediately after the procedure, patients rest briefly under observation before returning home. Mild soreness at the injection site commonly occurs and deem manageable with ice packs and over-the-counter pain relievers.
Physicians advise patients to avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 to 48 hours but can typically resume normal activities shortly thereafter. It’s important to follow any specific post-procedure instructions given by the healthcare provider. Gradual improvement in pain relief deems expected, often becoming noticeable within a few days as the corticosteroid reduces inflammation.
Regular follow-up appointments allow the doctor to monitor progress and determine the injection’s effectiveness. Some patients may benefit from physical therapy to enhance mobility and strength. By adhering to recovery guidelines and maintaining open communication with their healthcare provider, patients can maximize the benefits of facet joint steroid injections and achieve significant pain relief.
If you would like to speak to an Orthopedic Foot and Ankle Specialist, give us a call at 817-697-4038, or contact us over the web. Tele-medicine appointments are also available.
