 |
||
|
The facet joints are the joints between vertebra, which are present on each side of the spine. They provide flexibility to the spine, which allows you to bend and turn. Each vertebra has two sets of facet joints. One pair faces upward (superior articular facet) and one faces downward (inferior articular facet). There is one joint on each side (right and left). Facet joints are hinge-like and link vertebra together. They are located in the back of the spine. Facet joints are synovial joints. This means each joint is surrounded by a capsule of connective tissue and produces a fluid to nourish and lubricate the joint. The joint surfaces are coated with cartilage allowing the joints to move or glide smoothly against each other. What is a facet joint injection? A facet joint injection is an injection that is performed to confirm that a facet joint is the source of pain. Each facet joint is supplied by two nerves. A facet joint block can be performed by injecting into the joint or injecting close to the nerves supplying the joint. An injection into the joint is called an intra-articular injection whereas blocking the nerves is called medial branch blocks or facet joint nerve blocks. The injection will decrease pain and inflammation in a facet joint or joints. What happens during the procedure? A facet joint injection is an in-office procedure. The physician generally sedates the patient. The patient is positioned on the stomach. The skin on the back is prepped and draped. Following this, the skin is numbed with a small amount of local anesthetic. Then, a needle is placed through the skin and advanced under fluoroscopic (x-ray) guidance to the target site. At this time, a small mixture of numbing medicine (local anesthetic) and an anti-inflammatory steroid is injected. One or several joints may be blocked or they may be performed in one region or multiple regions on one or both sides. What happens after the procedure? The patient is taken into the recovery room where they are closely monitored for any complications or side effects. In the initial phase, a patient is evaluated for relief with each block by performing previously painful activities. Occasionally, the leg(s) may be numb for a few hours. What are the expected results? Decrease in or relief of back pain. You were given a number of medications during the procedure. These sometimes include sedatives, narcotics, local anesthetics, steroids and other medications. Any of these drugs or the procedure itself sometimes can cause side effects, including drowsiness, temporary numbness, weakness and soreness. What to do after the procedure? Rest a few hours and use assistance if needed. Resume activity as tolerated, but do not overdo it. Resume regular diet. Restrictions: Do not drive or operate machinery for at least 12 hours. Do not make important decisions for 12-24 hours after treatment. Walk with assistance as long as numbness, weakness or drowsiness is present. Notify the office if you have: Excessive or abnormal bleeding, persistent chills or fever over 100 degrees or if there is no major change in pain pattern or level. Emergency: In case of emergency, call (954) 493-5048. If you are unable to reach the physician, report to the nearest emergency room and request them to inform the physician at Fort Lauderdale Pain Medicine. Few
other things: Resume your usual medication(s). Apply ice as instructed.
If the IV site becomes painful, place warm towels on the site for
20 minutes, 2-3 times a day. |
Where Does it Hurt? | Education | FAQ | Testimonials
Our Office is Located Just South of Holy Cross Hospital
1930 NE 47th Street, Suite 300 Fort Lauderdale, FL, 33308
