Facet Block Injection in Parksville, NY

Facet block injections are a valuable treatment for individuals who are suffering from chronic pain. If you’re considering a facet block injection for pain relief, you likely have questions. Understanding this procedure can help you decide if it’s the right solution for your pain management needs. In this guide, we provide answers to some of the most frequently asked questions Brooklyn residents have about facet block injections. 

What is a Facet Block Injection?

A facet block injection is a minimally invasive procedure used to diagnose and treat pain originating from the facet joints in the spine. These injections contain a combination of a local anesthetic and a steroid, which helps reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. NY Spine Medicine offers facet block injections for pain relief, aiming to help patients regain their quality of life.

How Does a Facet Block Injection Work?

During a facet block injection procedure, a physician injects the medication directly into the facet joints. These joints are located at the back of the spine and help stabilize it. The injection numbs the area and reduces inflammation, which can alleviate pain in the back, neck, and other related areas. NY Spine Medicine in Parksville, NY provides detailed consultations to determine if this treatment is suitable for you.

What Conditions Can Be Treated with Facet Block Injections?

Facet block injections are used to treat various conditions, including:

• Facet joint arthritis: Degeneration of the facet joints leading to chronic pain.
• Spinal stenosis: Narrowing of the spinal canal causing nerve pain.
• Spondylosis: Degeneration of the spine due to aging.

Patients experiencing chronic back or neck pain may benefit from a facet block injection for back pain or a facet block injection for neck pain.

What Should I Expect During the Procedure?

The facet block injection procedure is relatively quick and performed on an outpatient basis. 

• Preparation: You will be asked to lie on an examination table. The skin around the injection site will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic.
• Injection: Using X-ray guidance, the physician will insert a needle into the facet joint and inject the medication.
• Post-Procedure: You may experience immediate relief from the anesthetic, followed by longer-term relief as the steroid reduces inflammation.

How Effective Are Facet Block Injections?

The effectiveness of facet block injections can vary from person to person. Many patients experience significant relief, which can last several days to several months. Regular assessments and follow-up treatments may be necessary to maintain pain relief. At NY Spine Medicine in Parksville, NY, we monitor our patients closely to optimize their treatment plans.