Facet Joint
What is it?
Facet joint are a pair of joints located inbetween the vertebrae which faciliate and limit movement to protect the spine. They are composed of cartilage and retain fluid in between the joint to protect the bone during movement. This can get damaged by certain conditions or by trauma. The needle is guided to the joint using an X-ray, where a dye is then injected to make certain of the correct site. Cortisone (anti inflamatory) and pain reliving medicine is then injected into the joint to relieve pain and reduce swelling.
How long will I be in hospital?
Nearly all patients enter the hospital as an out patient for injections, you go in for the injection and leave once its done.
How Long Does it Last
Relief from symptoms can last anywhere from a few weeks to a year. Often relief from symptoms in instant but it may take up to a week to take effect.
Risks and Side Effects
Steroid flushing meaning your face and chest may look flushed and you may have slightly elevated temperature for a couple of days. Temporary Water retention Sleeping Difficulties Anxiety Increased pain for a short period Changes in menstrual cycle Bleeding (rare) Allergic reaction (rare) Infection (rare)