Facet Joint Blocks

Overview

Facet joint blocks are injections administered directly into the small joints (facet joints) that connect the vertebrae of the spine. These joints can become inflamed or arthritic, causing significant neck, mid-back, or lower back pain. A facet block serves both a diagnostic purpose — confirming the facet joint as the pain source — and a therapeutic purpose by delivering anti-inflammatory medication directly to the affected joint.

Under fluoroscopic X-ray guidance, our physiatrist injects a local anesthetic and corticosteroid into or around the targeted facet joint. The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, confirming the joint as the pain generator. The corticosteroid then reduces inflammation over the following days, providing longer-lasting relief. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis and takes approximately 15–20 minutes.

1. 1Patient is positioned face-down and the skin is cleaned and numbed
2. 2Fluoroscopic guidance is used to identify and target the facet joint
3. 3A fine needle is advanced to the joint capsule
4. 4Local anesthetic and corticosteroid are injected
5. 5Immediate pain response is assessed to confirm diagnosis

• Accurate diagnosis of facet-mediated pain
• Targeted relief for neck, mid-back, and lower back pain
• Reduced joint inflammation and stiffness
• Improved range of motion and daily function
• Outpatient procedure with rapid recovery
• Can guide further treatment decisions including radiofrequency ablation

Patients typically resume normal activities the same day or the following day. Mild soreness at the injection site may occur for 24–48 hours. Diagnostic relief from the anesthetic is immediate; therapeutic relief from the steroid usually begins within 3–5 days. If facet blocks provide significant relief, your physician may recommend radiofrequency ablation for longer-lasting results.

Frequently Asked Questions