A facet joint injection is performed by cleaning the skin, numbing the area with local anaesthetic, and then using imaging guidance to place a fine needle into or around the affected facet joint. A mixture of local anaesthetic and anti-inflammatory steroid is then injected to reduce pain and inflammation.
At Alton Pain Clinic, all injections are performed using ultrasound guidance, which helps improve accuracy, safety, and comfort.
Most procedures take around 15–30 minutes, and patients usually go home shortly afterwards.
Step-by-Step: How a Facet Joint Injection Is Performed
- Initial Assessment
Before the procedure, your clinician will:
- Review your symptoms and medical history
- Examine the affected area
- Confirm whether the facet joints are likely contributing to your pain
- Positioning
You will usually lie comfortably on an examination couch, depending on the area being treated:
- Face down for lower back injections
- Positioned appropriately for neck injections
The skin over the treatment area will then be cleaned using sterile solution.
- Ultrasound Guidance
At Alton Pain Clinic, ultrasound is used throughout the procedure to:
- Visualise the facet joint in real time
- Guide accurate needle placement
- Avoid nearby nerves and blood vessels
This helps improve both safety and precision.
- Local Anaesthetic
A small amount of local anaesthetic may be used to numb the skin and surrounding tissues before the main injection.
This helps reduce discomfort during the procedure.
- Injection Into the Facet Joint
Using ultrasound guidance, the clinician carefully places a fine needle into or around the affected facet joint.
The injection usually contains:
- Local anaesthetic
- Corticosteroid (anti-inflammatory medication)
The medication is delivered directly to the painful area to reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms.
- After the Procedure
The procedure itself is usually quick, often taking around 15–30 minutes.
Afterwards:
- You may be monitored briefly
- Mild soreness can occur for a day or two
- Most patients return home shortly after treatment
What Does a Facet Joint Injection Feel Like?
Most patients tolerate the procedure well. You may feel:
- Mild pressure during the injection
- Temporary stinging from the local anaesthetic
- Mild soreness afterwards
Ultrasound guidance helps improve comfort by reducing unnecessary tissue irritation.
How Long Does Recovery Take?
Recovery is usually straightforward. Patients are often advised to:
- Rest for the remainder of the day
- Avoid strenuous activity initially
- Gradually return to normal activities over the next few days
Why Ultrasound Guidance Is Important
At Alton Pain Clinic, all injections are performed under ultrasound guidance because it:
- Improves injection accuracy
- Enhances safety
- Reduces risk of complications
- Helps target the painful area more precisely
Are Facet Joint Injections Still Considered Safe?
For most patients, facet joint injections are considered safe when used appropriately and in moderation. The benefits of reducing pain and improving mobility often outweigh the small risk of steroid-related side effects.
This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you are experiencing persistent symptoms, please consult a qualified clinician.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a facet joint injection painful?
Most patients experience only mild discomfort. Local anaesthetic is used to numb the area before the injection.
How long does the procedure take?
Facet joint injections usually take around 15–30 minutes.
Are facet joint injections performed under ultrasound?
Yes. At Alton Pain Clinic, all facet joint injections are performed using ultrasound guidance for greater precision and safety.
What is injected into the facet joint?
The injection typically contains a local anaesthetic and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and pain.
Can I go home after the procedure?
Yes. Most patients go home shortly after the injection and recover quickly.