What are the Facet Joints?

Facet joints are small joints present, one on each side of the vertebra, in the spinal column. They connect each vertebra with the vertebra above and below. These joints help us to bend forward and backward and to a limited extent to the side.

What is a Facet Injection?

Facet joint blocks are injections of local anesthetic and Cortisone (a steroid) into the facet joints.

Each facet joint is supplied by two small nerves. In diagnostic blocks for facet joints, local anesthetic is used to numb these tiny nerves to block the pain impulses going to the brain. In addition to this, a small amount of Cortisone may also be used which can help to reduce inflammation.

These diagnostic blocks help to find out whether the facet joints are the cause of the back pain.

How long does the procedure take?

Depending upon the number of nerves or joints being blocked, it may take thirty minutes (30) to an hour.

How is the procedure performed?

The procedure is done under Xray guidance. An IV is started and you will receive sedation through the IV before and during the procedure. A local anesthetic (like Xylocaine/Novocaine) is injected into the skin and tissues below, prior to the placement of the needle for the facet blocks.

How should I prepare for the procedure?

Do not eat or drink anything six (6) hours before the procedure. You should stop taking any blood thinners like aspirin, at least five days before the procedure. You can take all of your other medications with a sip of water. If you are a diabetic, please discuss your medications with your physician.

What should I expect after the procedure?

This procedure is done for diagnostic purposes. If the source of your pain is from these joints, you should have pain relief for a period of two to four hours after the injection. Please note the time interval from the injection to the onset of your pain and inform your physician. This will help in determining the next step of treatment.

You should make arrangements for someone to drive you home and you should rest for the remainder of the day. The next day you should be able to resume your normal daily activities.