What is facet joint injection done with?

Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine that help guide movement. The local anaesthetic numbs the area for a limited time and may help assess whether that joint is contributing to pain. The corticosteroid is intended to reduce inflammation around the joint. A clinician guides a fine needle to the planned location, often using imaging, and the exact approach depends on the spinal level and your symptoms. An injection may be used for assessment, symptom relief, or as part of a wider rehabilitation plan; it does not repair every possible source of back or neck pain.

Tell the clinic about allergies, infection, diabetes, pregnancy, and medicines that affect bleeding. Ask whether you need to change any medicine or arrange transport home. Afterward, follow the activity instructions and observe both the injection site and your usual pain pattern. Temporary numbness or weakness may affect movement, so wait until sensation and control are normal before driving or doing risky tasks.

Call the treating team for fever, increasing redness or drainage, severe pain, or symptoms that continue to worsen. Seek emergency help for new bladder or bowel problems, numbness around the groin, rapidly progressing limb weakness, trouble breathing, or swelling of the face or throat.

Which facet joint is being targeted? Is the injection mainly diagnostic, therapeutic, or both? Which anaesthetic and corticosteroid will be used? What should I record about my pain afterward?