How the Procedure Works
When you arrive for your appointment, a staff member will review the procedure with you and answer any questions you may have. You’ll be asked to sign a consent form before getting started.
During the procedure, you’ll lie on a treatment table while the area being treated is cleaned and sterilized. A radiology technician will assist the doctor by guiding a special imaging tool called a fluoroscope. This allows your doctor to see the needle in real time and ensure the medication is delivered to the correct spot. Before the injection, a small amount of numbing medication will be applied to make the process more comfortable.
Once everything is ready, your doctor will place the needle into the targeted joint and slowly inject the medication. The entire process usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes. After the injection, the needle will be removed and the site will be covered with a bandage. You’ll then move to a recovery area, where you’ll rest briefly before going home. Make sure someone is available to drive you, as you won’t be able to drive yourself afterward.
What to Expect After the Injection
It’s common to feel some soreness at the injection site, but this typically goes away within a day. You can use ice packs, rest, or over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any mild discomfort.
Some patients experience immediate relief, while for others, it may take a bit of time. In many cases, the injection is used to confirm whether the facet joints are the actual source of pain. If you feel temporary relief, this can help your doctor decide if additional treatments, like radiofrequency ablation, might be beneficial. On the other hand, if there’s no relief at all, your doctor may explore other possible causes of your pain.
After your procedure, it’s helpful to keep track of your pain levels and note any changes. This information plays a key role in helping your care team decide the best course forward.
If you have questions after your procedure or experience anything unexpected, don’t hesitate to reach out to your provider for guidance and support.