Facet joint injections are a minimally invasive procedure to diagnose and treat pain originating from the facet joints, which are small joints between the vertebrae in the spine. These joints can become inflamed or irritated due to conditions such as facet syndrome, osteoarthritis, or spinal injuries, leading to chronic pain. Facet joint injections deliver a combination of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory medication directly into the joint space to provide significant pain relief and enhance mobility.
The facet joint injection procedure includes several important steps:
Dr. Akhil Monga begins with a comprehensive evaluation, including a review of medical history and a physical examination. Imaging tests, such as MRI or CT scans, may be utilized to pinpoint the source of pain and confirm that the facet joints are the problem.
Patients may receive a mild sedative to help them relax. The treatment area is cleansed thoroughly to minimize the risk of infection.
The procedure typically takes place in a sterile environment. Using fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray imaging), a thin needle is carefully inserted into the facet joint space.
Once the needle is correctly positioned, a local anesthetic and corticosteroid mixture is injected. The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid reduces inflammation and prolongs relief.
After the injection, patients are monitored for a short period to ensure there are no immediate complications. Dr. Monga provides specific aftercare instructions, including guidance on activity levels and potential follow-up appointments.
While facet joint injections are generally safe, there are potential risks to be aware of:
Facet joint injections are beneficial for treating various conditions, including:
There are different approaches to facet joint injections, including:
Dr. Akhil Monga is a distinguished expert in interventional pain management, specializing in the latest techniques for diagnosing and treating facet joint pain. His approach emphasizes:
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Akhil Monga today to learn more about facet joint injections and how they can help alleviate your pain, allowing you to enjoy a better quality of life.
Schedule Consultation