Facet Injections

A Facet is a small joint that is anatomically located at each level of the spine. This joint allows for movement (including flexion, extension and rotation) of the spine. Not infrequently, patients can develop “arthritis” (a degenerative condition) of the facet joint, causing “band-like” pain across the center of the back or neck. An injection of a small amount of cortisone at or near this joint often yields excellent pain relief. All procedures are comfortably performed at an outpatient center under generous sedation and local anesthesia, with direct visualization using an X-Ray camera (fluoroscopy).