How long does facet joint injection take to work for facet joint syndrome?

Facet joint syndrome refers to pain thought to arise from the small joints at the back of the spine. An injection can contain a local anaesthetic for short-term numbing and an anti-inflammatory medicine whose effect may take longer to become clear. Pain can fluctuate as the anaesthetic fades, so one evening or one movement does not show the whole result. The clinician will consider how your familiar pain responds during normal activities, not only how the injection site feels.

Take it easy for the period given by your treating team, then return gradually to usual movement. Record when relief starts, how long it lasts, and which positions or activities become easier. Follow instructions about medicines and wound care, and do not test the back or neck with heavy activity immediately after treatment. More detail is available in [Facet Joint Syndrome](/conditions/facet-joint-syndrome/) and [Facet Joint Injection](/treatments/spine-care/facet-joint-injection/).

Call the treatment team about fever, worsening redness or drainage, severe pain that does not settle, or a new rash. Get urgent help for new weakness, spreading numbness, difficulty walking, or new loss of bladder or bowel control.

Ask which pain pattern the injection is intended to target, how to record the response, when the result will be reviewed, and which rehabilitation movements are appropriate once the area is comfortable.