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Facet joint injection FAQs

Learn more about facet joint injections in these frequently asked questions.

Facet joint injections can treat many conditions involving damaged facet joints. This includes:

  • Osteoarthritis.
  • Trauma to the facet joints.
  • Inflammation of the synovium (a membrane made of soft tissue that lines the facet joints).
  • Spinal instability.

Facet joint injections can be administered anywhere along the spine. Lumbar facet joint injections tackle low back pain, while thoracic and cervical facet joint injections treat neck and upper back pain.

Up to 92% of patients get short-term relief from facet joint injections (up to four weeks). Long-term relief (up to three months) may be felt in up to 62% of facet joint injection patients.

Facet joint injections are safe and well-tolerated by most patients. However, there are some potential side effects to be aware of:

  • Pain, tenderness, and bruising around the injection site.
  • Swelling and inflammation around the injection site.
  • Temporary worsening back or neck pain after the procedure.

There’s also a very low risk of infection, nerve damage, and allergic reaction after a facet joint injection.

Like most injections, facet joint injections can be uncomfortable. However, the pain is short-lived and will quickly subside as the medication takes effect.

Facet joint injection costs

Flexible Payment Options to Suit You

Payment Plans

Spread the cost of your medical treatment over several months with our finance options and medical payment plans. This is ideal for patients seeking the speed and comfort of private healthcare without significant upfront payments.

Self-pay

Use our self-payment options to get prompt care with the consultant of your choice. Patients looking for fast, efficient treatment without private health insurance are welcome to pay for treatment before their procedure.

Private Medical Insurance

We welcome patients with private medical insurance from approved insurers, including Bupa, AXA, Aviva, and many more. Find out how to claim for your treatment with private health insurance to get optimum care and comfort.

Private medical insurance we accept

Learn more about facet joint injections

Find out more about facet joint injections and how they help with back pain below.

Facet joint injections can treat many conditions involving damaged facet joints. This includes:

  • Osteoarthritis.
  • Trauma to the facet joints.
  • Inflammation of the synovium (a membrane made of soft tissue that lines the facet joints).
  • Spinal instability.

In some cases, back pain can get worse after a facet joint injection. This is due to swelling at the injection site, which will improve as the steroid takes effect. Any increase in pain is normally temporary and eases off after a few days.

For most patients, pain relief from facet joint injections lasts at least four weeks. It can last as long as three to six months before you need a top-up injection.

Most patients can have facet joint injections up to three times a year, depending on the effectiveness of the treatment.

Facet joint injections are successful for the majority of patients. But there’s a chance your pain will return after a few weeks or months. In this case, other injections or certain types of spinal surgery may be recommended to give you longer-term relief.

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