Facet joint injections,
after diagnosis.

The history explores which movements provoke pain and how symptoms affect daily activity. Examination checks spinal motion and neurological findings, while existing imaging is reviewed for arthritis and other explanations. Facet-mediated pain usually differs from a compressed nerve root, but both can coexist. Rehabilitation, activity adjustment and the least invasive appropriate care come first.

An intra-articular facet injection enters the joint itself. A medial branch block instead places local anesthetic beside the small nerve carrying signals from that joint. These procedures answer different questions and are not interchangeable. A corticosteroid is considered in an intra-articular injection only when it is needed, with individual risks and alternatives reviewed.

When radiofrequency ablation is being considered, appropriately selected medial branch blocks help test whether the intended nerves carry the usual pain. Recording symptoms during ordinary activities helps interpret the result. An intra-articular injection alone does not automatically establish candidacy for ablation, and an unsupported target calls for reassessment rather than proceeding.

Procedures are image-guided, using ultrasound or X-ray guidance depending on the target. The physician discusses bleeding, infection, medication reactions and possible nerve injury. Aftercare and driving precautions depend on the procedure. Any response is assessed alongside progress in rehabilitation; neither an injection nor further treatment is promised, and surgery is reserved for when truly needed.