Joint Injections
Similar to an Epidural, a Facet Joint Injection delivers pain relief medication directly to the spine. Many people experience radiating pain in either the lower back or neck, can find relief with joint injections.
Joint Injections are a wonderful tool to combat radiating pain but they are not always the best and longest lasting option. Speaking with our pain specialist is the best way to know which option is best for your situation.
Our Doctors work alongside our Physical Therapists, Chiropractors and Nurse Practitioners to complete this piece of the recovery puzzle.
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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT JOINT INJECTIONS
WHAT IS A JOINT INJECTION?
A Facet joint injection is the injection of a long-lasting steroid into the facet joints of the lumbar spine. Facet joints are found on each side of the vertebra, and local anesthetics and steroids can be injected to relieve inflammation and pain. The injection itself is only a few minutes long and contains a combination of local anesthetic and steroids. The injection is almost painless. Before injecting medicine, doctors utilize fluoroscopy to ensure the needle is properly inserted. The patient is usually able to resume normal activities the next day. The local anesthetic has an instant impact that goes off after a few hours. Cortisone begins to function in three to seven days and can last for several months. Several injections over a few weeks to six months may be required.
ARE JOINT INJECTIONS SAFE?
This is a safe treatment with few risks or negative effects. Temporary discomfort is the most frequent side effect. Infection, bleeding, increasing symptoms, and spinal or epidural blocks are all examples. Multiple injections of cortisone may cause weight gain, a rise in blood sugar (which many diabetes people experience), water retention, and suppression of the body’s own natural cortisone production. These are unusual negative side effects.
WHEN SHOULD I CONSIDER A JOINT INJECTION?
Typically, a joint injection is recommended for those who do not respond to other conservative treatments, such as oral anti-inflammatory medication, rest or physical therapy.
ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS?
When you visit Arizona Pain Relief, we work with you to understand your condition and goals. We then create a customized treatment plan to help you hit those goals quickly and permanently. This plan will always include conservative care options. Our goal is get you out of pain as quickly as possible, and to keep you out of pain. Without physical therapy, chiropractic and conservative medical care, it is impossible for you to treat the underlying cause of most conditions. If you have specific treatments that you want to explore, please mention them to your healthcare provider at your visit. We are here to help you hit your goals.
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