Elena Ocher Medical

Manhattan Clinic

1111 Park Ave., #1, New York, NY 10128

646-678-3676

Brooklyn Clinic

7401 4th Ave., #A1, Brooklyn, NY 11209

718-836-6100

Facet Joint Injections NYC

Facet Joint Injections for Pain Management in Manhattan and Brooklyn

Facet joint injections are a minimally invasive treatment aimed at alleviating back and neck pain originating from the facet joints of the spine. This procedure is frequently performed in the bustling neighborhoods of Manhattan and Brooklyn, where residents often seek quick and effective solutions to manage chronic pain.

What are Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections involve the administration of a local anesthetic and a steroid medication directly into the facet joints. These injections are designed to reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. They are also used diagnostically to confirm whether the facet joints are the source of pain.

How is the Facet Joint Injection Procedure Performed?

The procedure begins with the application of a local anesthetic to numb the skin. A fine spinal needle is then carefully inserted into the facet joint or capsule under fluoroscopic guidance to ensure accurate placement. The anesthetic and steroid solution is injected to reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.

Immediate and Long-Term Expectations Post-Injection

Immediately following the injection, patients often experience significant pain relief, which may temporarily recede after the anesthetic wears off. Typical recovery includes a brief period of soreness followed by pain relief commencing between the third and fifth day post-injection. The duration of pain relief can vary, lasting from days to months.

Procedure Duration and Patient Tolerance

The facet joint injection process typically takes about thirty minutes. It is performed under local anesthesia, which helps make the experience relatively comfortable for most patients.

Post-Procedural Care and Recommendations

After the injection, applying ice to the treated area can help manage any soreness. Patients are usually advised to resume their normal activities the following day, depending on their comfort level. Most individuals can return to work without any significant complications, experiencing only mild soreness.

Frequency and Limitations of Facet Joint Injections

To minimize the risk of side effects, no more than three facet joint injections are recommended within a six-month period. If significant relief isn’t achieved after three injections, further injections are unlikely to be beneficial.

Understanding Risks and Who Should Avoid This Treatment

While facet joint injections are generally safe, they carry risks such as infection, bleeding, and an increase in symptoms. Patients on blood-thinning medications, like Coumadin, should avoid this procedure due to increased risk of bleeding. Facet joint injections are a viable option for managing chronic neck and back pain, particularly for residents of Manhattan and Brooklyn looking for a quick return to daily activities. This treatment offers both diagnostic and therapeutic benefits, providing relief and helping guide future pain management strategies.

Schedule Your Consultation for Stem Cell Therapy and PRP in NYC

Are you experiencing persistent back or neck pain? Contact our clinics in Manhattan or Brooklyn to find out if facet joint injections are right for you. Schedule your consultation with our expert team today and take the first step towards a pain-free life.