Pain management is a complex field. It often requires a tailored approach to cater to an individual’s specific condition.
There are two common interventional procedures. These are the facet joint injections (FJIs) and epidural steroid injections (ESIs). Both are frequently considered for mitigating spinal discomfort.
These procedures differ significantly in various factors. This is even though both are minimally invasive.
We’ll provide clarity on the differences between facet joint injections vs epidural steroid injections. If you are interested, this article is for you.
Let’s begin!
Purpose of Facet Joint Injections
Facet joint injections (FJIs) are used to diagnose and treat pain caused by inflammation or damage to the facet joints in the spine. Facet joints are small, paired joints located at the back of each vertebra that help stabilize the spine and allow for movement.
During a facet joint injection, a local anesthetic and steroid medication are injected directly into the affected joint. This can provide pain relief by reducing inflammation and swelling in the joint.
FJIs may be recommended for individuals experiencing neck, back, or sciatic pain due to facet joint problems. They may also be used as a diagnostic tool to determine if the facet joints are the source of an individual’s pain.
Target Area and Procedure
Facet joint injections are typically targeted at a specific level of the spine, depending on where the pain is located. The procedure is often performed under fluoroscopy. It uses real-time X-ray images to guide the needle to the correct location.
The injection itself only takes a few minutes and is usually well-tolerated by patients. However, it may require multiple injections over time to achieve long-term pain relief.
Medication Used
The medication used in facet joint injections includes a local anesthetic. This includes the lidocaine or bupivacaine. It also includes a corticosteroid, such as methylprednisolone or dexamethasone.
The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief. The steroid helps reduce inflammation and provide longer-term relief.
Moreover, the steroid medication used in facet joint injections is different from the one used in epidural steroid injections. This is because the facet joints are located on the back of the spine. However, the epidural space is located around the spinal cord and nerve roots.
Effectiveness and Duration of Pain Relief
Facet joint injections can provide significant pain relief for individuals with facet joint-related discomfort. FJIs are expected to have a 75% success rate.
However, the duration of pain relief varies from person to person. Some individuals may experience relief for a few weeks. Others may have long-term pain relief lasting several months.
Duration of Relief and Frequency of Injections
The duration of pain relief from facet joint injections also depends on the underlying condition causing the pain. If an individual has structural damage to their facet joints, they may require more frequent injections to manage their symptoms.
On average, it is recommended to wait at least three months between injections. However, some individuals may require additional injections sooner if they experience a recurrence of pain.
Diagnostic vs Therapeutic
FJIs are used both as a diagnostic tool and for pain relief. ESIs are primarily used for therapeutic purposes. Facet joint injections can help determine if the facet joints are the source of an individual’s pain.
If the injection provides significant pain relief, it confirms that the facet joints are responsible for the discomfort. This can help guide further treatment options.
Risk of Side Effects
As with any medical procedure, there is a risk of side effects associated with facet joint injections. These may include:
- temporary discomfort at the injection site
- allergic reactions to the medication used
- infection
Some individuals may also experience an increase in pain after the injection before experiencing pain relief. This is known as a “flare-up” and can be managed with ice and over-the-counter pain medication.
On the good side, facet joint injections are considered safe. They have a low risk of serious complications. This is one of the reasons why they are often recommended as a first-line treatment for facet joint-related pain.
Frequency of Injections
The frequency of facet joint injections depends on the individual’s response to the procedure and the underlying cause of their pain. Some individuals may only require one injection for long-term pain relief. Others may need regular injections to manage their symptoms.
It is essential to work closely with a healthcare professional. That way, one can determine the best treatment plan for each individual’s specific condition. This may include a combination of treatments and therapies, such as physical therapy or medication.
Patient Selection
Facet joint injections are typically recommended for individuals who have not responded well to other conservative treatments. This may be either physical therapy or medication. They may also be considered for those with specific conditions. It can be for either or both arthritis or spinal stenosis.
It is essential to undergo a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional. Do this before considering facet joint injections. This will help determine if the procedure is appropriate and safe for the individual.
Moreover, it is crucial to have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. Facet joint injections may not provide complete pain relief. But, they can be an effective option for managing discomfort and improving quality of life.
Complementary Therapies
In addition to facet joint injections, there are various complementary therapies that individuals can use to manage their pain. These may include:
- exercise
- acupuncture
- massage therapy
- relaxation techniques
It is important to discuss these options with a healthcare professional. This must be done before incorporating them into a treatment plan. They may be used in conjunction with facet joint injections for optimal pain management.
If you check out these therapeutic services on top of some complementary therapies, make sure to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider beforehand. They are often helpful in managing spinal discomfort.
Understand the Differences Between Facet Joint Injections vs Epidural Steroid Injections
Facet joint injections and epidural steroid injections are both minimally invasive procedures used to manage spinal discomfort. However, they differ significantly in several factors as discussed in this article.
As you compare facet joint injections vs epidural steroid injections, it is essential to understand such factors. That way, you can make informed decisions about their pain management treatment plan.
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