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Facet and medial branch blocks are diagnostic and therapeutic injections aimed at alleviating pain associated with the facet joints, which are small joints located at the back of the spine. These joints allow for flexibility and movement in the spine, but they can also become inflamed or degenerate, leading to pain.

• Medial Branch Nerves: These nerves transmit pain signals from the facet joints to the brain. By targeting these nerves with injections, we can help relieve pain and improve function.

• Facet Joint Pain: Pain that originates from the facet joints can be due to arthritis, injury, or degenerative changes.

The procedure involves the injection of a local anesthetic and, in some cases, a corticosteroid into the targeted facet joint or the medial branch nerves. This serves two purposes:

• Diagnostic Tool: If pain relief is achieved, it indicates that the facet joint is likely the source of the pain, guiding further treatment options.

• Pain Relief: The local anesthetic provides immediate relief by blocking the pain signals sent from the facet joint to the brain.

1. Preparation: Before the procedure, you will meet with our specialists to discuss your medical history, current medications, and any previous treatments. Imaging studies such as X-rays or MRIs may be reviewed to identify the exact locations for injection.

2. Anesthesia: To ensure your comfort, a local anesthetic is usually applied to the skin at the injection site.

3. Injection: Using fluoroscopic guidance (real-time X-ray), the physician will carefully insert a needle into the targeted facet joint or medial branch nerve and inject the anesthetic and/or corticosteroid.

4. Recovery: After the injection, you will be monitored for a short period. Most patients can resume their normal activities within a day, although some may experience temporary soreness at the injection site.

• Pain Relief: Many patients experience significant pain reduction, enabling improved mobility and engagement in daily activities.

• Diagnostic Insight: Successful pain relief can help confirm the facet joint as the source of pain, informing future treatment decisions.

• Minimally Invasive: These procedures are non-surgical, involving less risk and shorter recovery times compared to surgical options.

• Improved Function: Relief from pain can lead to better physical function and overall quality of life.

After a facet or medial branch block, you may experience:

• Follow-Up Care: Our team will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress and discuss additional treatment options if necessary.

• Initial Discomfort: Some soreness at the injection site is common and typically resolves within a few days.

• Variable Pain Relief: Pain relief may occur immediately or may take a few days to develop. The duration of relief can vary, lasting from weeks to several months.

Facet and medial branch blocks are generally safe, but potential risks and side effects may include:

• Infection at the injection site
• Bleeding
• Allergic reactions to the medication
• Temporary increases in pain
• Rarely, nerve damage

Our specialists will discuss these risks with you during your consultation to ensure you are fully informed before proceeding with the treatment.

• Expert Care: Our board-certified specialists have extensive experience in performing facet and medial branch blocks and managing pain conditions.

• Personalized Treatment Plans: We recognize that each patient’s experience with pain is unique, and our treatment plans are tailored to fit your specific needs.

• Comprehensive Support: From diagnosis to recovery, our team is dedicated to providing ongoing support and guidance throughout your treatment journey.

If you are suffering from chronic back or neck pain and are considering facet or medial branch blocks as a treatment option, contact NovaSpine Pain Institute today to schedule a consultation. Our compassionate team is here to help you explore your options and find a path to lasting relief. Let us work together to help you regain control of your life.