Facet Joint Injections in Branchburg, Somerset, Hillsborough and Watchung NJ
Pinpoint Relief for Your Back or Neck Pain in Somerset County New Jersey
Are you dealing with persistent back or neck pain that won’t go away? Does the pain seem to come from deep in your spine, especially in the joints connecting your vertebrae? Is it worse when you stand, walk, extend your back, or look up? If other treatments haven’t worked or if you’re just starting to seek relief, a facet joint injection might be the solution you’re looking for.
What is a Facet Joint?
Facet joints are small joints located between and behind each vertebra in your spine. Facet joints are essential for the spine’s movement and stability, helping you to move while keeping your spine stable. Here’s a simpler breakdown:
Structure and Location
- Where They Are: Found along the back of the spine, from the neck down to the lower back.
- What They Do: Connect vertebrae to each other.
Function
- Stability: Help keep the spine stable and prevent excessive movements.
- Movement: Allow the spine to bend, twist, and flex smoothly.
- Weight Bearing: Support part of the body’s weight and help distribute it evenly.
Why They Matter
- Pain: Can cause pain and stiffness if they become worn out or damaged, a condition known as facet joint syndrome.
- Diagnosis and Treatment: Pain from facet joints can be diagnosed with injections and treated with physical therapy, medications, or other procedures.
How do I know if I have Facet Joint Pain?
Patients can identify facet joint pain by several signs and symptoms. Here are some common indicators that you might have facet joint pain:
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Symptoms of Facet Joint Pain
- Localized Pain: Pain is typically localized to the neck, mid-back, or lower back, depending on which facet joints are affected.
- Worsening with Movement: Pain often worsens with certain movements, such as twisting, bending backward, or standing up from a sitting position.
- Morning Stiffness: Stiffness in the back, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity.
- Referred Pain: Pain may radiate to the buttocks, thighs, or shoulders, but it usually does not extend below the knee or elbow.
- Tenderness: Tenderness over the affected facet joints can be felt when pressing on the spine.
- Limited Mobility: Reduced flexibility and range of motion in the spine.
What is a Facet Joint Injection?
A facet joint injection is similar to a Medial Branch Block (MBB). It is a procedure used to diagnose and treat pain in the facet joints of the spine. It involves injecting a combination of anesthetic and steroid medication into the joint to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation. The procedure is guided by X-ray to ensure accurate placement of the needle.
What to expect during a Facet Joint Injection?
A facet joint injection is a minimally invasive procedure that typically takes less than 30 minutes. This is an outpatient procedure performed in our Ambulatory Surgical Center, where you’ll be able to return home the same day. You’ll remain awake during the procedure, though sedation through an IV for your comfort is available
We use X-ray guidance to deliver medication directly to the affected joint during the procedure. The local anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the anti-inflammatory helps reduce swelling and provides longer-lasting comfort.
What is the purpose of Facet Joint Injection?
Facet joint injections serve two essential purposes:
- Diagnostic – They help us confirm whether the facet joint is indeed the source of your pain.
- Therapeutic – If the facet joint is the culprit, the injection can reduce pain and provide much-needed pain relief for months.
How painful are Facet Injections?
Most patients report minimal discomfort during the procedure. The local anesthetic ensures the area is numbed before the injection, so you might feel a slight pinch or pressure. Afterward, you may experience some soreness or aching.
What are side effects of Facet Joint Injections?
Facet joint injections can have side effects, including temporary pain at the injection site, increased pain, facial flushing, insomnia, and elevated blood sugar levels. Less common side effects include infection, bleeding, nerve damage, and allergic reactions. Rare but serious risks include stroke, paralysis, and vision problems. It’s important to discuss these potential risks with your healthcare provider before the procedure.
Which conditions can be treated with a facet joint injection?
- Facet joint sprains, arthritis, or syndrome: In the neck, mid-back, or lower back
- Spondylosis or degenerative disc disease: Age-related wear and tear on the spine.
- Scoliosis: An abnormal curvature of the spine.
- Post-surgical back pain: Lingering pain after a previous spine surgery.
If you’re experiencing pain in your neck, upper back, upper arms, mid-back, lower back, buttocks, or thighs, a facet joint injection might be the solution you need.
Why Choose Performance Ortho for Your Facet Joint Injection?
At Performance Ortho, we recognize how frustrating and debilitating back and neck pain can be. Our team of skilled doctors and caring staff are committed to helping you feel better and take charge of your life.
For over 20 years, Performance Ortho has helped 20,000 patients with spine and joint pain using their proven team-based approach. We use advanced procedures and techniques to create personalized treatment plans based on your needs and goals. Caring for you during this journey is our top priority.
Schedule an appointment online or call our Patient Care Coordinators at 908-754-1960 to discuss whether facet joint injections are the right solution for you. We have multiple convenient locations throughout NJ, so you can find the care you need close to home.