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A facet joint injection or block involves the injection of a substance into or next to the facet joint. Typically, in a diagnostic block, local anesthetic is used. In most cases a corticosteroid is also injected. The purpose of facet joint blocks is twofold. Initially, it is a diagnostic block.
If the patient receives 50% or greater pain relief for at least two hours, there is an increased likelihood that the facet joint is important in the patient’s pain syndrome. The block may then be repeated to confirm the diagnosis. The second purpose of the facet block is to reduce pain. Corticosteroids can help reduce the pain secondary to irritating substances that sensitize nerve endings.
Patients undergoing facet joint injection all receive local anesthetic to anesthetize the skin and deeper tissues. You may feel some slight pressure or discomfort. It is usually done with the patient lying on the stomach. Typically, the local anesthetic will work within 10 minutes and last up to six hours. The corticosteroid usually takes longer for pain reduction. It usually takes anywhere from one to five days for pain relief to occur if the pain is coming from the joint.
Facet joints link the bones of the spine together in the posterior or back part of the spine. Two facet joints are present at each spinal segment. They are named for the spinal bones that they connect. For example, in the neck or cervical spine the facet joints between cervical #5 and cervical #6 are called C 5-6. The facet joints are important in restricting the motion of the cervical and lumbar spine. They allow twisting, flexion and extension motion. Schedule an appointment today.
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Ortho Spine Surgery is a surgical specialty that involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of disorders affecting the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
Orthopedics is a branch of medicine that deals with the diagnosis and treatment of conditions and injuries affecting the musculoskeletal system, which includes bones, joints, ligaments, tendons, and muscles.
Orthopedic surgeons treat a variety of conditions, such as auto accident fractures, arthritis, sports injuries, scoliosis, and osteoporosis.
Interventional pain management is a medical specialty that uses minimally invasive procedures to diagnose and treat chronic pain. Procedures include epidurals, medial branch blocks, and radio frequency ablation.
You may schedule an appointment by phone, by calling our Port Orange office at (386) 317-5149, or our Palm Coast office at (888) 997-3952.
Please bring a valid photo ID, your insurance card, a list of any medications you are currently taking, any relevant medical records, and any questions you may have for your doctor.
During your first visit, your doctor will review your medical history, perform a physical examination, and may order diagnostic tests such as X-rays or MRIs. Your doctor will discuss your diagnosis and treatment options with you and answer any questions you may have.
The length of an appointment varies depending on the nature of the visit. A routine follow-up appointment may only last 15-20 minutes, while a consultation or evaluation may take an hour or more.
Interventional pain management specialists treat a variety of pain conditions, including back pain, neck pain, joint pain, nerve pain, and chronic headaches.
It depends on your insurance provider and specific policy. Some insurance plans require a referral from a primary care physician, while others allow patients to self-refer. Please check with your insurance provider for details.
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