Facet Joint Injections

Facet Joint Injections are a highly effective, minimally invasive option provided by Thrive Ortho & Spine's interventional pain management specialists for patients suffering from chronic back or neck pain related to the spine’s facet joints. This blog post explains what these injections are, how they work, their benefits, and why they’re a leading choice for targeted pain relief in Atlanta.​

What Are Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections involve the delivery of a local anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the facet joints—small joints located between each vertebra in your spine that allow for smooth bending, twisting, and flexing. These injections are guided by fluoroscopy (a real-time type of x-ray) or CT imaging to ensure precision and safety during the procedure.​

Conditions Treated

Facet joint injections can alleviate pain and inflammation caused by:

• Osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis of the spine)
• Facet joint syndrome
• Spinal stenosis
• Degenerative disc disease with facet involvement
• Postural or mechanical back and neck pain
• Whiplash and cervical strain injuries​

These procedures are often recommended when conservative therapies, such as physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle changes, haven’t provided adequate relief.​

Benefits of Facet Joint Injections

Facet injections offer several distinct advantages:

• Direct, targeted pain relief that can begin immediately or within a few hours
• Decreased inflammation, improving mobility and function
• Minimally invasive approach, resulting in minimal downtime and faster recovery
• Reduction in the need for long-term medications or surgical intervention
• Diagnostic value to confirm if facet joints are the source of pain​

The Procedure: What to Expect

During the injection:

• The skin is numbed over the targeted area
• Guided imaging is used for precise needle placement
• A combination of anesthetic and steroid medication is injected
• Most patients can resume light activities the following day​

Some patients may experience temporary soreness at the injection site, but serious side effects are rare.

Why Choose an Atlanta Interventional Pain Practice?

Thrive's interventional pain management specialists are experienced in diagnosing spinal joint pain and personalizing care for each patient’s needs, ensuring both immediate and long-term pain relief. If you're dealing with persistent spinal discomfort, a facet joint injection administered by a skilled local practice may provide the relief you need.​

Facet Joint Injections are a proven solution for those in the Atlanta area struggling with debilitating spinal pain. For more information or to find out if you’re a candidate, contact us today!

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