How long should you rest after facet joint injections?

Facet joint injection recovery timeline You may have some soreness around the site of the injection for a few days, so you’ll need to avoid strenuous activity and driving for the first 24 hours. You’ll likely be able to return to your regular activities the next day.

Is a facet joint injection painful?

It feels like a little pinch and then a slight burning as the local anesthetic starts numbing the skin. After the skin is numb, the procedure needle feels like a bit of pressure at the injection site. If you experience any pain during the procedure, your doctor will inject more local anesthetic as needed.

What steroid is used in facet joint injections?

A facet joint injection is an injection of an anti-inflammatory steroid (e.g., Dexamethasone or Triamcinolone) in the facet joints. The facet joints, also known as the zygapophysial joints, are part of the bony framework of the spine.

What should I do after a facet joint injection?

Right after the facet joint injection, you will be asked to stay in the recovery area and keep resting for about 20 or 30 minutes. At this point, the medical team will likely ask you to perform some simple movements. Some are movements to test whether you experienced any immediate pain relief.

How do you prepare for a facet joint injection?

How do you prepare for the procedure?

  1. Be sure you have someone to take you home.
  2. Understand exactly what procedure is planned, along with the risks, benefits, and other options.
  3. If you take aspirin or some other blood thinner, ask your doctor if you should stop taking it before your procedure.

Are facet injections the same as steroid injections?

Facet joint injections are a type of steroid inject that is administered to a very specific set of joints. The upper part of your spine, known as the cervical vertebrae, has two specific points on each segment that rest on one another. These are known as facets.

What are the side effects of facet joint injections?

Potential Side Effects Of Facet Joint Injections

  • Increased blood pressure.
  • Irritability, anxiety, and mood swings.
  • Insomnia.
  • Temporary decrease in immunity.
  • Hot flashes and feelings of warmth, especially around the face and neck.
  • Increased appetite, weight gain, and/or water retention.

What happens if facet joint injections don’t work?

If facet joint injections do not alleviate your pain, there are other strategies that you and your doctor can explore to try to help your pain. These may include: Epidural injections (depending on where your pain is located) Additional testing, such as bone scans, bloodwork, or nerve studies.