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What is a Facet Joint Injection?

A Facet Joint Injection involves administering medication directly into the facet joints, the small joints between each vertebra that help stabilize the spine and allow for movement. These joints can become irritated or inflamed due to conditions like arthritis, injury, or general wear and tear, leading to back pain, stiffness, and decreased mobility. The injection includes a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. In addition to providing therapeutic relief, the procedure is often used diagnostically to confirm if the facet joints are the source of pain.

Conditions Treated with Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injections are beneficial for treating a range of spinal conditions, including:

Facet Joint Syndrome

Degeneration or irritation in the facet joints causing localized back pain and stiffness.

Osteoarthritis

The wear and tear of the facet joints due to aging can result in inflammation and discomfort.

Spinal Stenosis

A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses the nerves, often causing pain and limited movement.

Spondylosis

Arthritis in the spine that leads to pain, particularly in the neck or lower back, often associated with aging.

Injury or Trauma

Strains, sprains, or damage to the facet joints from physical activity or accidents.

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How Does the Facet Joint Injection Procedure Work?

At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we perform facet joint injections as a quick, outpatient procedure right in our New Jersey office. Here's an overview of what to expect:

  • Preparation: The procedure typically lasts 20 to 30 minutes. You'll be asked to lie on your stomach or back, depending on the location of the injection.
  • Local Anesthesia: A local anesthetic is applied to numb the skin and surrounding tissues, ensuring you remain comfortable.
  • Injection: Using fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray), the doctor precisely inserts the needle into the facet joint to administer the medication.
  • Post-Procedure: After resting briefly, most patients are able to return home the same day, with minimal downtime.

Benefits of Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injections offer a number of advantages for those suffering from spinal pain:

Effective Pain Relief

By delivering medication directly into the facet joint, inflammation is reduced, leading to significant pain relief.

Enhanced Mobility

With the reduction in pain, many patients experience improved flexibility and range of motion in the spine.

Minimally Invasive

As a non-surgical treatment, facet joint injections pose fewer risks and require less recovery time compared to surgical alternatives.

Quick Recovery

Most patients are able to resume normal activities within a few days after the procedure.

Diagnostic Tool

If the injection provides relief, it confirms the facet joints as the source of the pain, which helps in determining future treatment plans.

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Why Choose Gerling Spine Care NJ for Your Facet Joint Injection?

At Gerling Spine Care NJ, we are dedicated to providing top-tier, personalized care for patients suffering from spine-related pain. Under the leadership of Dr. Michael Gerling, our skilled team utilizes advanced imaging technology and minimally invasive techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for every patient.

We believe in tailored care, which means we work closely with each patient to design a treatment plan that fits their specific condition and lifestyle. Our goal is to relieve your pain, restore your mobility, and help you get back to living a full and active life.

Schedule a Consultation Today

If you're dealing with chronic back pain caused by facet joint issues, Gerling Spine Care NJ is here to provide relief. Contact our New Jersey office today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how Facet Joint Injections can help alleviate pain and inflammation, allowing you to return to the activities you enjoy most.

Our Locations

Gerling Spinecare & Research Institute consists of NY Orthopedics & Gerling Institute NJ. Two practices, one standard of excellence.

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We're here to help you move forward.

Relief starts with quality orthopedic care. Contact us today to take the next step toward a more active, pain-free life.

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