Procedure Description:

An injection that is performed to confirm that a facet joint is the source of your pain. An x-ray machine is used for proper placement of the needle.

Duration

30 minutes for the injection. You will be asked to wait up to an additional 20 minutes after the injection before going home.

Follow-up Care

No driving for 12 hours. You may resume previous activates as directed. No restrictions on what you eat or drink. You may have increased pain for one or two days. You may resume your pain medication(s) as directed.

Patient Preparation

If you are a diabetic, take aspirin, or take blood thinning medication, please notify us prior to the procedure. Bring your most recent MRI scan, if one has been done within the last 5 years. Bring all of your medications, including those over-the-counter.

Potential Adverse Effects

Call the pain clinic immediately if you experience fever, difficulty walking, increased pain – (longer than two days), difficulty urinating or trouble controlling bowel movements, or increased weakness or numbness in the back or legs.