Facet Joint Injections

Targeted relief for neck and back pain

What Are Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections are minimally invasive procedures that help diagnose and relieve chronic neck or back pain caused by inflammation in the small joints between vertebrae. These joints support spinal movement and stability but can become irritated due to aging, injury, or arthritis.

The injection delivers a local anesthetic for immediate relief and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. It also serves as a diagnostic tool—if pain improves, it confirms the facet joints as the pain source.

What Are Facet Joint Injections?

Facet joint injections are minimally invasive procedures that help diagnose and relieve chronic neck or back pain caused by inflammation in the small joints between vertebrae. These joints support spinal movement and stability but can become irritated due to aging, injury, or arthritis.

The injection delivers a local anesthetic for immediate relief and a corticosteroid to reduce inflammation. It also serves as a diagnostic tool—if pain improves, it confirms the facet joints as the pain source.

Understanding Facet Joint Pain

Facet joints help support motion and stability in your spine. When these joints become inflamed or degenerate, they can cause localized pain and stiffness.

Common causes include:

✔ Cartilage degeneration

✔ Inflammation

✔ Spinal arthritis

✔ Injury or trauma

You may experience symptoms such as localized pain in the neck or lower back, reduced mobility, and increased discomfort when moving or changing posture.

How Facet Joint Injections Help

Facet injections reduce inflammation and block pain signals coming from the affected joints. A combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid is typically used. Benefits may include:



Lasting Pain Relief

Provides extended relief from chronic neck or back pain, often lasting weeks to months.



Enhanced Daily Function

Supports better sleep and improved ability to perform daily activities with less discomfort.



Improved Mobility

Helps restore range of motion and flexibility, making everyday movements more comfortable.



Diagnostic Clarity

If pain relief is achieved, it confirms the facet joints as the true source of symptoms.

What to Expect During the Procedure

01 Before your injection:

✔ Inform your provider of any medications, allergies, or health conditions

✔ Arrange for someone to drive you home

02 During the injection:

✔ The skin is numbed with a local anesthetic

✔ Imaging guidance (e.g., fluoroscopy) is used for precise needle placement

✔ The medication is injected into the affected facet joint(s)

Duration: 15 to 30 minutes 

Downtime: Most patients can resume light activity the next day

Am I a Good Candidate?

Facet joint injections may be ideal for those with:



Arthritis of the Spine

Inflammation and degeneration of the spinal joints causing stiffness and pain.



Degenerative Disc Disease

Breakdown of spinal discs that leads to joint instability and chronic discomfort.



Localized Back or Neck Pain

Persistent pain limited to a specific area of the spine, often worsened by movement.



Stiffness or Reduced Range of Motion

Difficulty bending, turning, or moving due to joint inflammation or irritation.

Your provider will help determine if this treatment is appropriate based on your medical history and symptoms.

Care That’s Close to Home

We offer care from two convenient clinic locations, making it easy to access expert medical support close to home.

Each facility is designed to provide a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment equipped with advanced technology and supported by a compassionate team dedicated to your well being.



Tualatin Clinic



Newberg Clinic

Care That’s Close to Home

We offer care from two convenient clinic locations, making it easy to access expert medical support close to home.

Each facility is designed to provide a welcoming, safe, and efficient environment equipped with advanced technology and supported by a compassionate team dedicated to your well being.



Tualatin Clinic



Newberg Clinic

Why Choose Spinal Diagnostics?

Patients choose Spinal Diagnostics for our comprehensive approach, accurate diagnostics, and compassionate care. We stay at the forefront of interventional procedures and are committed to improving your quality of life—without opioids or invasive surgeries.