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?

Facet joint steroid injections, also known as facet joint injections or facet blocks, are a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain originating from the facet joints in the spine. The facet joints are small joints located between the vertebrae that help facilitate movement and provide stability to the spine.

During a facet joint steroid injection, a local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication are injected directly into the affected facet joint or joints under guidance from fluoroscopy or ultrasound. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid helps reduce inflammation and provides longer-lasting relief.

The injection is typically performed on an outpatient basis, and the procedure itself takes only a few minutes. The patient may be given a sedative or local anesthesia to minimize discomfort during the procedure. After the injection, the patient is monitored for a short period and then allowed to go home.

Facet joint steroid injections can provide temporary pain relief and help determine if the facet joints are the source of the pain. They are commonly used to treat conditions such as facet joint arthritis, facet joint syndrome, or facet joint-related back or neck pain. The injections can also be used as a diagnostic tool to confirm the source of the pain before considering other treatment options.

It’s important to note that facet joint steroid injections are not a cure for the underlying condition causing the pain. The injections provide temporary relief and can be repeated if needed. The effectiveness of the injections varies from patient to patient, and some individuals may experience more significant and long-lasting pain relief than others.

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 is essential to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare professional before undergoing the procedure. The decision to proceed with facet joint steroid injections should be made based on a thorough evaluation of the patient’s medical history, symptoms, and imaging studies, in consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.

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.