Facet Injections

What Is a Facet Joint Injection?

A facet joint injection is a procedure used to relieve pain in the small joints of the spine, called facet joints. These joints help stabilize the spine and allow movement, but they can become inflamed due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative conditions, leading to back or neck pain.

What Facet Injections Are Used For

  • Facet joint arthritis (wear and tear of the joints).
  • Chronic neck or back pain.
  • Pain from injury or degeneration.

What Is Injected?

  • Local anesthetic – To numb the joint and provide immediate pain relief.
  • Corticosteroids – To reduce inflammation and provide longer-lasting relief.

Common Injection Routes & Their Differences

  • Intra-articular Facet Joint Injection – Medication is injected directly into the facet joint. Used for reducing inflammation and pain within the joint itself.
  • Medial Branch Block – Medication is injected near the nerves that supply the facet joint. Used diagnostically to determine if the facet joint is the source of pain.
  • Facet injections can provide temporary relief and help doctors determine if further treatments, such as radiofrequency ablation, may be beneficial for longer-term pain management.

Questions?

📞 Phone: 907-458-5638
📍 Location: 1919 Lathrop Street Ste 221

Reception
(907) 458-5638
FAX
(907) 458-6415

Monday - Thursday
7:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

William H. Doolittle, MD
Medical Building
Suite 221
1919 Lathrop Street

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