TL;DR Quick answer
An injection into the small joints of the neck to diagnose and relieve neck pain. It is commonly used for neck pain and cervical spondylosis. The procedure takes about 20–30 minutes and is day care. Suitability is decided after a specialist assessment.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala — Consultant Pain Physician View full profile →
About Cervical Facet Joint Injection
The facet joints connect the vertebrae at the back of the neck and are a common source of neck pain and some headaches. Injecting local anaesthetic and steroid helps confirm the source and can relieve pain.
| Key facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 20–30 minutes |
| Anaesthesia | Local |
| Guidance | X-ray (fluoroscopy) |
| Hospital stay | Day care, home the same day |
| Commonly used for | Neck Pain, Cervical Spondylosis |
| Who to see | Dr. Nikhilesh Samudrala, Consultant Pain Physician |
Benefits
- No surgical incision
- Day-care procedure: home the same day
- Precise, image-guided placement
- Can be combined with rehabilitation
Before the procedure
Tell the clinic if you take blood thinners, have diabetes, an infection, or could be pregnant. You will receive specific instructions, including whether to fast and whether someone should take you home.
During the procedure
You lie on your front or side. Using X-ray guidance, a fine needle is placed at the joint and the medicine is injected. It takes about 20 to 30 minutes.
After the procedure
You rest for a short time before going home, usually the same day. Mild soreness at the injection site for a day or two is common. Follow-up checks how much the procedure helped.
Risks and safety
Temporary neck soreness or numbness, and rarely infection, bleeding or nerve irritation. The doctor discusses the benefits and risks for you before you consent.
Myths and facts
Myth Injections near the spine or nerves are very painful.
Fact The skin is numbed first. Most people feel pressure and brief discomfort.
Myth One injection fixes the problem for good.
Fact The effect varies. Some people need a repeat procedure, and most benefit from exercise and follow-up as well.
| Condition | What it is | Typical symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Neck Pain | Persistent pain and stiffness in the neck, sometimes spreading to the shoulders, arms or head. | Stiffness and reduced range of movement; pain spreading to the shoulder blades |
| Cervical Spondylosis | Age-related wear of the neck discs and joints causing neck pain and stiffness. | Neck pain and stiffness; headaches starting at the back of the head |
This page is for general information. Whether a treatment is suitable for you is decided after an individual consultation.