What to expect from facet joint injection for facet joint syndrome

Facet joint syndrome refers to pain linked to the small joints that connect the bones of the spine. Your clinician may consider an injection when the examination and symptom pattern point toward one or more of these joints. The consultation includes a review of medicines, allergies, infection risk, and previous treatments.

For the procedure, you lie in a position that allows the target joint to be seen with imaging. The skin is cleaned and numbed before a fine needle is guided into the intended area. Local anaesthetic and an anti-inflammatory medicine may be used. Temporary soreness or a brief change in sensation can happen afterward.

Follow the clinic’s instructions about meals, medicines, and transport. Mention blood thinners, diabetes, current infection, or any past reaction to an injection before the appointment. Afterward, follow the advised activity limits and avoid using early numbness as a reason to lift or exercise harder.

Write down changes in pain, movement, sleep, and daily function over the following days. The response is considered with your examination rather than treated as a stand-alone answer. Related guidance is available at [Facet Joint Syndrome](/conditions/facet-joint-syndrome/) and [Facet Joint Injection](/treatments/spine-care/facet-joint-injection/).

Call the treating service if the injection site becomes increasingly red, swollen, hot, or draining, or if pain and fever develop. Seek emergency help for new limb weakness, severe loss of balance, breathing difficulty, loss of bladder or bowel control, or numbness around the groin.

Ask what findings support the injection, which joint will be targeted, what medicines are included, how to manage your regular prescriptions, and what the next step will be if relief is limited.