Last Updated on November 26, 2025 by Bilal Hasdemir
When lower back pain keeps you from enjoying your day, a lumbar facet joint injection might help. We know dealing with pain is tough. That’s why we’re here to help you through every step of your treatment.
A facet joint injection is a procedure where a doctor puts pain-relieving medicine into a facet joint. This is a small, non-surgical way to help with lower back pain caused by facet joint problems.
By using a local anesthetic and corticosteroid, patients often feel a lot of pain relief. At Liv Hospital, we mix advanced care with kindness. We make sure you’re ready for the procedure and your recovery.
Key Takeaways
- Understand the purpose and benefits of lumbar facet joint injections.
- Learn how facet joint injections can diagnose and treat lower back pain.
- Discover the importance of preparation for undergoing a facet injection procedure.
- Find out how Liv Hospital provides expert care and guidance throughout your treatment.
- Experience significant pain relief through targeted facet joint injections.
Understanding Lumbar Facet Joint Pain and Dysfunction
The lumbar facet joints are key to our spine’s stability and flexibility. They help us move and twist. But, when they don’t work right, we can feel a lot of pain.
To get what’s going on with lumbar facet joint pain, we need to know about their anatomy. We also need to know what causes problems and what symptoms show there’s an issue.
Anatomy of Lumbar Facet Joints
Lumbar facet joints are found in the lower back. They connect the vertebrae. These joints have cartilage and a special fluid to keep them moving smoothly.
The way facet joints are built lets them move the vertebrae in controlled ways. This helps us bend, straighten, and twist our spine. They also help carry the weight of our spine, mainly when we extend or rotate.
Common Causes of Facet Joint Pain
Facet joint pain can come from several sources:
- Wear and tear from aging or repeated strain
- Inflammation in the joint
- Spinal injury or trauma
- Osteoarthritis and other degenerative changes
These can cause inflammation and irritation, leading to pain and stiffness.
Symptoms Indicating Facet Joint Issues
The signs of facet joint pain can differ but often include:
- Pain in the lower back
- Stiffness, mainly after resting
- Pain when bending or twisting the spine
- Pain that spreads to the buttocks or thighs, but not below the knee
Knowing these symptoms helps doctors figure out if it’s facet joint pain or something else causing the back pain.
| Symptom | Description |
| Localized Pain | Pain stuck in the lower back area |
| Stiffness | Less flexibility, mostly after resting |
| Radiating Pain | Pain that goes to the buttocks or thighs |
When a Lumbar Facet Joint Injection Is Recommended
We suggest lumbar facet joint injections for those who haven’t found relief from facet joint pain. These injections help manage pain from different spinal conditions.
Conditions Treated with Facet Injections
Facet injections treat facet joint arthritis and degenerative disc disease. These conditions cause a lot of pain and discomfort. By injecting medication into the facet joint, we can lessen inflammation and pain.
Failed Conservative Treatment Options
Before facet injections, we try other treatments first. This includes physical therapy, medication, and changes in lifestyle. If these don’t work, lumbar facet joint injections are considered next.
Diagnostic vs. Therapeutic Purposes
Facet injections have two main uses. They help find the pain source by numbing the area. They also deliver medication to reduce pain and inflammation. This makes spinal facet injections a key tool in managing spinal pain.
In summary, facet injections lumbar are for those with facet joint pain not helped by other treatments. Knowing their uses helps us improve patient care.
Types of Lumbar Facet Joint Injections
Lumbar facet joint pain is often treated with injections. These injections target the facet joints to reduce pain and inflammation. They are a common solution for lower back pain.
Medial Branch Blocks
Medial branch blocks involve injecting local anesthetic and sometimes corticosteroids around the nerves that supply the facet joints. These nerves send pain signals to the brain. By blocking these nerves, the procedure can diagnose and treat facet joint pain.
According to the National Institutes of Health, it’s a valuable tool for managing chronic lower back pain.
Intra-articular Facet Joint Injections
Intra-articular facet joint injections put medication directly into the facet joint space. They combine local anesthetic and corticosteroid to reduce inflammation and pain. These injections are used for both diagnosis and treatment of facet joint syndrome.
Targeting Specific Levels (L4-L5 Facet Joint Injections)
Lumbar facet joint injections can target specific levels, like the L4-L5 facet joints. The L4-L5 level is often a source of lower back pain due to its mechanical stress. Injections at this level use imaging guidance for accurate placement.
The choice between medial branch blocks and intra-articular injections depends on the patient’s condition and the healthcare provider’s judgment. Both are used in managing lumbar facet joint pain and can complement each other.
- Medial Branch Blocks: Useful for diagnosing and treating pain mediated by the medial branch nerves.
- Intra-articular Injections: Effective for directly reducing inflammation within the facet joint.
- Targeted Therapy: Allows for precise treatment at specific levels, such as L4-L5.
Benefits and Limitations of Facet Block Procedures
It’s important to know the good and bad of facet block procedures for back pain. These treatments can really help with pain, but how well they work can differ for everyone.
Expected Pain Relief Duration
The time pain relief lasts from facet joint injections can vary a lot. Some people feel better for months, while others might not feel relief for as long. Why this happens is because everyone’s body reacts differently to pain and treatment.
Success Rates and Effectiveness
Research shows facet joint injections can help with pain and improve how well you can move. How well these treatments work depends on a few things, like how well the doctor knows what’s causing the pain and the method used. Using imaging to guide the injections can lead to better results.
Potential Need for Repeated Treatments
Because the relief from facet joint injections doesn’t always last, some people might need more treatments. We help our patients figure out the best schedule for treatments based on how they react. This way, we can keep pain under control and improve their life quality.
Pre-Procedure Preparation Steps
Getting ready for a facet lumbar injection is important. It involves checking your health and getting ready personally. We help our patients with these steps to make the treatment go smoothly.
Medical Evaluation Requirements
A detailed medical check is needed before the procedure. This helps us understand your health and any risks. The check might include:
- A review of your medical history
- Current medications and allergies
- Previous treatments or surgeries related to your lumbar facet joint pain
Our team will use this info to make the procedure fit your needs.
Medication Adjustments Before the Procedure
Some medicines might need to be changed or stopped before the procedure. We’ll tell you about:
- Blood thinners and anticoagulants
- Diabetes medications
- Other relevant medications
It’s important to follow our advice to stay safe during the procedure.
What to Bring on Procedure Day
On the day of your lumbar facet joint injection, bring:
| Item | Description |
| Identification | Valid government-issued ID |
| Insurance Cards | Your medical insurance cards |
| Medical Records | Any relevant medical records or test results |
| List of Medications | A current list of your medications and dosages |
The Lumbar Facet Joint Injection Procedure Explained
A lumbar facet joint injection is a treatment for lower back pain. It involves injecting medicine into the facet joint to lessen inflammation and pain.
Patient Positioning and Preparation
The patient lies on their stomach on an X-ray table. This makes it easy to reach the lower back. We make sure they are comfortable and safe, using pillows if needed.
Preparation includes cleaning and sterilizing the skin where the injection will be given. Local anesthesia might be used to reduce discomfort during the procedure.
Imaging Guidance Techniques
We use imaging like fluoroscopy or CT scans to guide the needle. These methods show us the needle’s path and the facet joint in real-time.
Fluoroscopy is often used because it shows continuous X-ray images. This helps us place the needle correctly.
Needle Placement and Medication Delivery
With the patient in position and imaging ready, we insert the needle into the facet joint. We then inject a mix of local anesthetic and corticosteroid into the joint.
The medication reduces inflammation and numbs the pain. The corticosteroid helps by swelling down the joint over time.
Duration and Pain Management During the Procedure
The whole procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes. The actual injection is quick, but getting ready and using imaging takes longer.
We use local anesthesia or conscious sedation to manage pain. The choice depends on the patient’s comfort and the procedure’s complexity.
| Procedure Step | Duration | Pain Management |
| Patient Positioning | 5 minutes | Local anesthesia |
| Imaging Guidance | 5-10 minutes | Conscious sedation (optional) |
| Needle Placement and Medication | 5-10 minutes | Local anesthesia |
| Total Procedure Time | 15-30 minutes | Varies by patient |
Knowing what happens in a lumbar facet joint injection helps patients prepare. It can make them feel less anxious and more ready for the procedure.
Post-Procedure Care and Recovery
After a facet injection, it’s important to take care of yourself. The time right after treatment is key for the best results.
Immediate Aftercare in the Medical Facility
We watch over you in the hospital for a bit. This is to make sure you’re okay right away. Our team will:
- Check your vital signs
- Assess your pain level
- Give you any care instructions you need
Transportation Requirements
Because of the procedure and sedation, you’ll need a ride home. It’s best to have someone with you for this.
Activity Restrictions
To help you recover well, we suggest these steps:
- Avoid heavy lifting for at least 24 hours
- Don’t do strenuous activities for 48 hours
- Start doing normal things again when you feel up to it
Pain Management Strategies
Managing pain is key after a lumbar facet block or facet injection lumbar. We might suggest:
- Using over-the-counter pain relievers
- Putting ice on the area
- Resting in a comfy position
It’s important to follow our pain management advice. Everyone’s needs are different.
By following these tips and our advice, you can get the most out of your facet injections procedure. You’ll likely have a more comfortable recovery.
Potential Risks and Side Effects
It’s important to know the risks and side effects of lumbar facet joint injections. These injections are usually safe and work well. But, there are things to be aware of to make the best choice.
Common Side Effects
Side effects like soreness, bruising, and swelling are common. These usually go away in a few days. Sometimes, pain might get worse, but it often gets better with the right treatment.
Common Side Effects:
| Side Effect | Frequency | Duration |
| Temporary soreness | Common | 1-3 days |
| Bruising | Common | 3-5 days |
| Swelling | Less common | 1-3 days |
Rare but Serious Complications
Even though rare, serious problems can happen. These include infection, nerve damage, or allergic reactions. It’s key to know about these risks and watch for signs early.
Rare but serious complications, though uncommon, need quick medical help if suspected.
Managing Post-Procedure Discomfort
It’s important to manage pain after the procedure. Follow your doctor’s advice, which might include ice, gentle stretching, and pain meds. If pain doesn’t get better or gets worse, talk to your doctor.
Signs of Infection or Adverse Reactions
Knowing the signs of infection or bad reactions is vital. Watch for more pain, redness, swelling, or fever at the site. If you see these signs, get medical help right away.
Understanding the risks and side effects of lumbar facet joint injections helps patients make smart choices. It also prepares them for any complications that might come up.
Conclusion: Long-Term Outlook After Lumbar Facet Injections
It’s important for patients to understand how long lumbar facet joint injections last. Studies show that 15% to 45% of people with low back pain have facet joint pain. This pain can affect the lower back and legs, making it key to get the right treatment.
Diagnostic facet joint blocks, like lumbar facet joint injections, are shown to work well. But, it’s good to know about the rare risks. For example, 4% of patients might get blood in the injection site, and 1.2% might have a local hematoma. For more on the safety and success of these injections, check out this resource.
How long facet joint injections last can vary. Some people need more than one treatment. We keep a close eye on our patients and adjust their treatment plans as needed. This way, we make sure they get the best care for their spinal health.
FAQ
What is a lumbar facet joint injection?
A lumbar facet joint injection is a small procedure to help with lower back pain. It involves injecting a medicine into the facet joint. This helps diagnose and treat the pain.
What are the common causes of facet joint pain?
Facet joint pain often comes from wear and tear, inflammation, or injury. These can cause arthritis and degenerative disc disease.
What are the symptoms indicating facet joint issues?
Signs of facet joint problems include back pain, stiffness, and limited movement. These symptoms come from facet joint dysfunction.
What conditions are treated with facet injections?
Facet injections help with facet joint arthritis and degenerative disc disease. They are used when other treatments don’t work.
What is the difference between medial branch blocks and intra-articular facet joint injections?
Medial branch blocks inject medicine near nerves that supply the facet joints. Intra-articular facet joint injections put medicine directly into the joint.
How long does pain relief from facet injections last?
Pain relief from facet injections can last weeks to months. It varies based on the individual and their condition.
What are the benefits and limitations of facet block procedures?
Facet block procedures can greatly reduce pain. But, their success can vary. Some people may need repeated treatments.
How should I prepare for a lumbar facet joint injection?
To prepare, you’ll need a medical check-up and to adjust your medications. You’ll also get specific instructions for the day of the procedure.
What happens during a lumbar facet joint injection procedure?
You’ll lie on an X-ray table during the procedure. Imaging helps place the needle accurately. The medicine is then delivered, and you’re monitored for comfort and safety.
What are the possible risks and side effects of lumbar facet joint injections?
Risks and side effects include temporary pain or discomfort. Rare but serious complications like infection or allergic reactions can also occur.
How should I manage post-procedure discomfort?
Manage discomfort with pain management strategies like medication and rest. Always follow your healthcare provider’s specific guidance.
What are the signs of infection or adverse reactions after a lumbar facet joint injection?
Signs include increased pain, redness, swelling, or fever. If you notice these, seek medical help right away.
Can I undergo a lumbar facet joint injection if I have other medical conditions?
Whether you can have a lumbar facet joint injection depends on your other conditions. A thorough medical evaluation will determine the best treatment.
Will I need repeated facet joint injections?
The need for repeated injections varies. It depends on your condition and how well you respond to treatment. Some may need ongoing treatments.
How do I know if the facet joint injection was successful?
Success is measured by pain relief after the procedure. Your healthcare provider will assess the outcome and discuss further options if needed.
References:
- Manchikanti, L., et al. (2020). Comprehensive evidence-based guidelines for facet joint interventions in managing chronic spinal pain. Pain Physician, 23(3), E189-E246.
