Facet Joint Block

What is it?
A block that is performed to confirm that a facet join is the source of pain and decrease pain and inflammation in a facet joint or joints.

How is it done?
The patient is given a local skin anesthetic - a needle is then inserted into the facet joint or facet capsule and an anesthetic and steroid are injected by the physician. This is done under fluoroscopy.

Expected Results
Decrease in or relief of back pain.

How long does it take?
Thirty minutes.

Blocks are done in conjunction with physical therapy.

Glossary

Facet Joints - Joints located on the back of the spine on each side where one vertebrae slightly overlaps the adjacent vertebrae. They guide and restrict movement of the spine.

Fluoroscopy - X-ray imaging of a part of the body that is displayed on a screen or monitor in the block suite - this facilitates and assures proper placement of the needle and medication.