Understanding

Facet Blocks

Similarly to epidural injections, these do contain a corticosteroid and a local anesthetic. The steroid is placed just outside of the space where the nerves are and directly onto small joints that are posterior to the spinal cord, on the left and right. These injections are performed when it is felt that the pain is coming from injury or deterioration of the facet joints. Like epidural injections, they may have to be repeated if symptoms recur, and can be performed three times a year. Additionally, their effect can help determine the source of the pain and whether more invasive surgical procedures are needed.