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Facet joints are small joints that link the bones of the spine together. Wear and tear, inflammation and injury to the facet joints may cause pain.
Part of your treatment is an injection of local anaesthetic, often with a small amount of steroid.
What to expect after the injection
- Some people feel an improvement or even complete relief from their pain after the injection. For others, it can take up to 2 weeks to notice changes in pain.
- Some people find there is no change or even a worsening of their pain.
- You should take your normal pain medication for a few days following the injection. If you then feel you could reduce your pain medication, speak to your GP about how to do this.
Activities afterwards
This is only a guide as it will depend on your individual response to the injections. There are no restrictions on your movement following the injections.
- It is a good idea to have a restful day the day after your injection, even if your pain has improved, but try to keep moving and change position regularly.
- Over the next week, gradually build up to normal activities, such as jobs around the house or walking. You can also restart gentle exercise.
- If you work, you may feel ready to return the day after the injection. However, you might need to take a few extra days before returning to work if your back is very sore. If your job is physical you may need to do light duties for a week.
What to do in the weeks after the injection
Exercise is an important part of managing your pain. An increase in activity and exercise is a good way to build up your flexibility, strength and fitness. This may now be easier than it was before your injection. But even if you still have some pain, exercise can still be beneficial.
Exercises
- You can continue, or gradually get back to activities that you regularly participated in including exercise classes, activities and/or sports.
- If this is the first time you have had facet joint injections, you will be booked into our 'Post Injection' class which is run by a Pain Clinic Specialist Physiotherapist. This is an opportunity to ask questions, learn about how to manage long-term pain, and receive guidance about exercise.
- The class runs weekly for 1 hour each session and you will be booked in for 4 weeks. You will be given further details when you have been booked onto the class.
- We have provided you with a sheet showing some gentle exercises you can do at home. You may already be familiar with these. However, if you do not feel confident or are unsure of them we can guide you further in the class.
You can also find online exercise classes including Tai Chi, Yoga and Pilates on the NHS Fitness Studio website.
Contact information
Pain Team