Lumbar/Sacral

Lumbar/Sacral Facet Joint Injections

Facet joint injections are a treatment for pain in the lower back and sacral region. The facet joints are small joints along the spine that help the back move and stay stable. When these joints become inflamed or worn down, they can cause pain in the lower back, hips, or thighs. A facet joint injection delivers medicine directly into these joints to reduce pain and improve movement.

Conditions These Injections Treat

Doctors may recommend lumbar or sacral facet joint injections for:

• Degenerative arthritis of the lower spine can cause stiffness and chronic pain.
• Injury-related lower back pain, such as from a fall or car accident.
• Irritated facet joints often cause pain radiating into the hips or thighs.

Benefits of Facet Joint Injections

• Decreased lower back stiffness and discomfort.
• Improved mobility, posture, and flexibility, making it easier to sit, stand, or bend.
• Pain relief without major surgery.
• Reduced muscle tension and spasms in the lower back.
• Better ability to participate in physical therapy and daily activities.

How Facet Injections Work

The injection contains a mix of numbing medicine and a small amount of steroid medicine. The numbing medicine gives quick relief, while the steroid reduces inflammation in the joint for longer-lasting pain control. Some patients may need multiple injections for the best results.

What to Expect During the Procedure

• The injection is done in an outpatient setting so that you can go home the same day.
• You will lie on your stomach while the doctor cleans the lower 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 20–30 minutes.

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

Safety & Recovery Tips

• Rest the day of the injection, but light walking is fine.
• Avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activity until the next day.
• Apply an ice pack if the injection site feels sore.
• Most patients 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 essential to report.