Facet Injections: A Minimally Invasive Solution for Chronic Spine Pain

Facet joint pain is a common cause of chronic neck and back pain, often resulting from inflammation or degeneration of the small joints in the spine. Facet injections provide a targeted, non-surgical treatment to reduce pain and improve mobility. At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we specialize in advanced pain management techniques like facet injections to help patients regain comfort and function.

What Are Facet Injections?

Facet injections are minimally invasive pain relief procedures that involve injecting a combination of anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the facet joints of the spine. These joints connect the vertebrae and help stabilize movement. When they become inflamed due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative conditions, they can cause significant pain and stiffness.

By delivering medication directly to the affected area, facet injections reduce inflammation, numb the nerves, and provide lasting relief.

Learn more about pain therapy treatments at Ascend Pain & Wellness.

Who Can Benefit from Facet Injections?

Facet injections are recommended for patients experiencing:

• Chronic neck or lower back pain that worsens with movement
• Facet joint arthritis (spondylosis) causing stiffness and discomfort
• Pain radiating to the shoulders, upper back, or thighs
• Limited spinal mobility affecting daily activities
• Previous back injuries leading to long-term inflammation

A consultation with a pain specialist will determine if facet injections are appropriate based on your medical history and diagnostic imaging.

‍Explore other non-surgical spine treatments.

How Are Facet Injections Performed?Facet injections are performed as an outpatient procedure and typically take 20 to 30 minutes. The process involves:

• Patient Preparation: A mild sedative may be offered, and the treatment area is numbed with a local anesthetic.
• Guided Injection: Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray imaging), the physician carefully inserts a thin needle into the facet joint.
• Medication Delivery: A combination of steroid and anesthetic is injected to reduce inflammation and block pain signals.

Patients can usually go home the same day and may begin experiencing relief within a few days as the medication takes effect.

‍Learn about other spine pain relief options like epidural steroid injections.

What to Expect After a Facet Injection?

Most patients can resume light activities the same day, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for at least 24 to 48 hours. Pain relief duration varies, with some patients experiencing weeks to months of relief. If the initial injection is successful but pain returns, repeat treatments may be recommended.For long-term pain management, facet injections can be combined with physical therapy, exercise, and lifestyle modifications.

Benefits of Facet Injections

Facet injections provide targeted pain relief without the need for surgery, making them an ideal option for many patients.

Key benefits include:

• Minimally invasive with no incisions
• Fast-acting relief with effects often felt within days
• Improved mobility and function for daily activities
• Reduced reliance on pain medications, including opioids
• Short recovery time, allowing patients to return to normal routines quickly

Read about other minimally invasive spine treatments.

Long-Term Results and Next Steps

Facet injections can provide relief lasting several weeks to months, depending on the severity of the condition. Some patients may require additional injections or radiofrequency ablation to extend the effects by disrupting pain signals from the facet joints.If facet injections provide only temporary relief, a more advanced procedure, such as medial branch blocks or radiofrequency ablation, may be recommended.

‍Learn more about radiofrequency ablation for chronic pain.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a facet injection last?

Relief can last weeks to several months, with some patients benefiting from repeat injections for long-term pain control.

How painful is a facet injection?

The procedure involves minimal discomfort as a local anesthetic is used to numb the area. Patients may feel pressure but not significant pain.

Are facet injections covered by insurance?

Most insurance plans cover facet injections for medically necessary pain management. Our team can assist with insurance verification.

Are there any risks?

Side effects are rare and mild, including temporary soreness at the injection site or minor fluctuations in blood pressure.

Why Choose Ascend Pain & Wellness for Facet Injections?

At Ascend Pain & Wellness, we specialize in interventional spine treatments designed to provide safe and effective pain relief. Our team of experienced pain specialists uses advanced imaging technology to ensure precise injection placement for maximum effectiveness.

• Expert pain management specialists trained in facet joint procedures
• State-of-the-art fluoroscopic guidance for safe and accurate injections
• Comprehensive pain management plans tailored to each patient

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If chronic back or neck pain is limiting your daily activities, facet injections may be the solution.

Contact Ascend Pain & Wellness today to schedule a consultation.

Call (708) 550-7005 or visit our website for more information.

Related Resources

• Pain Therapy Treatments
• Spinal Cord Stimulation
• Radiofrequency Ablation for Chronic Pain
• Meet Our Specialists

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‍Click here for information on your lumbar facet injection