Facet Joint Injections
Facet joints are small joints at each segment of the spine that provide stability and enable movement. Facet joint injections are used to treat pain symptoms associated with:
- Arthritis of the spine
- Degenerative changes in the spine
- Facet joint syndrome
Sacroiliac Joint Injections
The SI joints connect the spine to the pelvis. SI joint injections are used to alleviate pain associated with:
- SI joint dysfunction or inflammation
- Lower back pain related to SI joint issues
- Conditions like ankylosing spondylitis affecting the SI joints
When These Injections May Be Necessary
These injections are considered when patients experience chronic back or pelvic pain that does not respond to conservative treatments like physical therapy, medications, or lifestyle changes. They can also be used diagnostically to confirm the source of pain.
The Procedure
The procedures for both facet joint and sacroiliac (SI) joint injections are performed as outpatient procedures, typically under fluoroscopic (X-ray) guidance to ensure accuracy. Initially, the patient is positioned in a way that allows the best access to the joint being treated. The skin over the injection site is then cleaned, and a local anesthetic is applied to numb the area. A needle is carefully guided into the joint space, and a mix of corticosteroid and anesthetic medication is injected. The corticosteroid helps reduce inflammation and pain in the joint, while the anesthetic provides immediate, short-term pain relief.
The entire process is relatively quick, and patients are usually monitored for a short time before being allowed to go home. The precision of needle placement is crucial for the effectiveness of the injection, which is why fluoroscopic guidance is a key component of the procedure at Excel Health.
Post-procedure Care and Recovery
Patients may experience immediate pain relief due to the local anesthetic, with longer-term relief from the corticosteroid occurring within a few days. Some patients may need a series of injections for optimal results. Activity may be limited immediately following the procedure, but patients typically return to their normal activities shortly thereafter.
At Excel Health, our team is committed to providing effective pain management solutions. We aim to improve our patients’ quality of life through targeted treatments like facet joint and SI joint injections as part of a comprehensive approach to pain relief and rehabilitation.
