Facet joints are small joints located in the spine that help with stability and movement. They can be a reason for pain and discomfort for many individuals, especially those with degenerative spinal conditions. Facet joint injections offer a minimally invasive option for pain relief and can help alleviate discomfort for the right candidate. In this article, we will discuss the common conditions treated with facet joint injections and identify the ideal candidates for this procedure.
Common Conditions Treated with Facet Joint Injections
Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, a common form of arthritis, can affect the facet joints, causing pain and inflammation. This degeneration may lead to decreased range of motion, stiffness, and discomfort.
Spondylosis: This condition is the wear and tear of the spine that occurs with age. It can result in the degeneration of the facet joints, which can lead to inflammation and pain.
Spinal Stenosis: Back discomfort can result from spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spinal column that can squeeze the nerves. Sometimes, the facet joints are also impacted by this compression.
Disc Herniations: When the soft, gel-like substance in the intervertebral disc leaks out due to injury or age, it may cause inflammation and pain in the facet joints.
Ideal Candidates for Facet Joint Injections
To determine whether you are an ideal candidate for facet joint injections, Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for facet blocks in Chicago to determine whether this procedure is right for you. They will perform a thorough physical examination and evaluate your medical history to determine your eligibility. Here are some signs that may suggest you are a suitable candidate for the procedure:
Persistent pain in the neck or lower back: Patients who experience continuous pain in the neck or lower back that does not improve with conservative treatments like physical therapy, medication, or exercise may benefit from facet joint injections.
Positive diagnostic medial branch block test: This diagnostic test involves injecting a numbing agent into the small nerves that supply the facet joints. If the patient experiences temporary pain relief from the injection, they may be a good candidate for facet joint injections.
No contraindications for the procedure: Patients who are allergic to medications used for the injections, have an active infection, or have other medical conditions that pose risks will not be candidates for this procedure.
What to Expect After Facet Joint Injections?
Post injections, most patients can expect to experience pain relief and a greater range of motion. However, it is vital to follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for post-injection care, such as rest and gentle exercise. To learn more about what to expect after the procedure, read this blog post on recovering from facet joint injections.
To Sum Up
Facet joint injections can provide relief for individuals suffering from neck and back pain due to degenerative spinal conditions. Ideal candidates for this procedure exhibit persistent pain in the neck and lower back, a positive diagnostic medial branch block test, and no contraindications. Post-procedure, patients can expect to experience pain relief and an improved range of motion. If you experience persistent pain in your neck or lower back, consider speaking with a qualified healthcare provider to see if facet joint injections may be the right solution for you. Thank you for reading!