Facet joint injections are a simple, outpatient procedure used to treat and diagnose back or neck pain caused by inflamed facet joints, the small joints that connect the bones of your spine. These injections combine a local anesthetic for immediate relief and a steroid to reduce inflammation for longer-lasting results.
Guided by live X-ray, the procedure takes about 30 minutes. Most patients return to normal activities the next day, with little to no downtime. If the injection eases your pain, it confirms the facet joint as the source, and repeat treatments may be offered if relief is temporary
