Steroid Injections
Facet Joint Injections
Facet joints are small, stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae in the spine. They help guide and limit the movement of the spine, providing stability and flexibility. However, these joints can become inflamed or irritated due to arthritis, injury, or other conditions, leading to chronic pain.
Facet joint injections involve the administration of a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic directly into the facet joints or the surrounding areas. This procedure aims to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief.
The Procedure
The facet joint injection procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you won’t need to stay overnight in the hospital. You’ll lie face down on a comfortable table, and the injection site will be cleaned and sterilized. A local anesthetic will be applied to numb the area, minimizing discomfort during the procedure. Using fluoroscopy (a type of real-time X-ray), the specialist will guide the needle to the precise location of the targeted facet joints. The corticosteroid and anesthetic mixture is then injected.
Recovery and Results
After the injection, you may be monitored for a short period before being allowed to go home. It’s important to arrange for someone to drive you home, as you may experience temporary numbness or weakness. Take it easy for the first 24 hours following the injection and avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting.
Some patients experience immediate pain relief, while others may notice improvement in the days following the procedure. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage any discomfort. Gradually resume your normal activities as tolerated. Your physician may recommend physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the spine and improve flexibility.
Sacroiliac Joint Injections
Are you struggling with persistent lower back pain? You might be a candidate for sacroiliac (SI) joint injections, a targeted treatment aimed at relieving discomfort originating from the SI joints. These joints are located at the base of your spine, where the sacrum and ilium meet.
SI joint injections involve administering a combination of local anesthetic and anti-inflammatory steroids directly into the SI joints. This procedure is designed to both diagnose and treat SI joint pain. The process helps reduce inflammation and provides significant pain relief, making daily activities more manageable.
The Procedure
You will be asked to lie face down on a procedure table. The injection site will be cleaned thoroughly, and a local anesthetic may be applied to numb the area. Using fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance, the specialist will precisely locate your SI joint to ensure accurate needle placement. A small needle will then be inserted into the joint, and the medication will be administered. The entire procedure typically takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
Recovery and Results
After the injection, you may experience immediate pain relief due to the local anesthetic, although this is temporary. The steroid medication usually starts to take effect within a few days. It’s advisable to rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours following the procedure.
Many patients report significant pain relief and improved mobility following SI joint injections. The duration of the relief can vary, lasting from several weeks to several months. For some, a series of injections may be necessary to achieve the best results.
