Which specialist performs facet joint injection?

Facet joints are small joints at the back of the spine. A pain-management specialist reviews your symptoms, examination and imaging before deciding whether an injection fits the clinical question. The procedure places medicine near a targeted facet joint or its nerve supply; imaging can help the clinician guide the needle and document the target.

A radiologist may perform or assist with image guidance, depending on the service. The wider team may include a spine specialist, nurse and physiotherapist when injections form part of a broader treatment plan.

Tell the clinic about blood-thinning medicines, allergies, diabetes, infection, pregnancy possibility and previous reactions to injections. Ask whether you need to change medicines or arrange transport. Follow instructions about eating, drinking, activity and monitoring after the procedure.

Keep a brief record of pain, movement and daily function after the injection. This helps the specialist judge whether the targeted area responded and decide what rehabilitation or further assessment is appropriate.

Seek urgent medical help for new leg weakness, loss of bladder or bowel control, numbness around the groin, severe breathing difficulty, fainting, or a rapidly worsening allergic reaction. Contact the treating service for fever, increasing redness or drainage at the injection site, or severe pain that is getting worse.

Ask which structure is being targeted, what imaging will guide the procedure, which medicines may be used, how you should monitor your response, and what alternatives are available if symptoms persist.