Cervical/Thoracic

Cervical/Thoracic Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injections are a treatment for pain in the neck and upper or middle back. The facet joints are small joints along the spine that help with movement and stability. When these joints become inflamed or worn down, they can cause pain and stiffness. A facet joint injection delivers medicine directly into these joints to calm irritation and reduce discomfort.

Conditions These Injections Treat

Doctors may recommend cervical or thoracic facet joint injections for:

• Arthritis or degenerative joint disease in the spine.
• Whiplash injuries or neck trauma.
• Chronic neck stiffness or upper back pain that does not improve with rest, exercise, or medication.

Benefits of Facet Joint Injections

• Relief from neck pain and upper back pain.
• Improved flexibility and range of motion, making it easier to turn the head or move the shoulders.
• Reduced muscle tension, tightness, or spasms.
• Easier participation in physical therapy or daily activities.

How Facet Injections Work

A facet joint injection contains a mix of numbing medicine and a small dose of steroid medication. The numbing medicine provides quick relief, while the steroid reduces inflammation in the joint for longer-lasting pain control. Some patients may need more than one injection to get the best results.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The procedure is done in an outpatient setting, and you can go home the same day.
• You will lie on a table while the doctor cleans the skin over the neck or upper back.
• A numbing medicine is applied to reduce discomfort.
• Using X-ray guidance, the doctor carefully places a needle into the facet joint and delivers the medicine.
• The procedure usually takes less than 20–30 minutes.

Mild soreness at the injection site is common for a day or two. Many patients begin to feel relief within several days.

Safety & Recovery Tips

• Take it easy the rest of the day after your injection.
• Light walking is fine, but avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until the next day.
• Apply an ice pack if the injection site feels sore.
• Most people return to normal activities within 24 hours.
• Contact your doctor if you notice unusual numbness, weakness, fever, or severe headache. These side effects are rare but important to report.