Facet Joint Injections

David Wu, MD Our Services Facet Joint Injections

David Wu, MD

Interventional Pain Management Specialist located in South Bay, Torrance, CA

Back and neck pain are sometimes debilitating conditions, but you don’t have to live with this common problem. At his interventional pain management practice in Torrance, California, Dr. David Wu offers facet joint injections that ease your discomfort and improve your quality of life. Call the office to schedule an appointment with Dr. Wu, or request an appointment online today.

Facet joint injections Q&A

What are facet joint injections?

Facet joint injections are injections containing medicine that Dr. Wu administers into your facet joints, which are joints located behind the vertebra in your spine. Facet joints allow your spine to bend, rotate, and twist, and stay aligned. These joints contain lubricating fluid that simplifies spinal movements.

If you experience back pain because of facet joint issues, see Dr. Wu to determine if you’re a candidate for injections or other pain-relieving solutions. 

What does a facet joint injection treat?

Facet joint injections can treat the following:

  • Back pain
  • Neck pain
  • Arthritis
  • Age-related wear
  • Joint irritation
  • Inflammation
  • Injuries

Dr. Wu offers additional treatments for neck and back pain. He determines which treatment best suits you after discussing your medical history, completing a physical exam, and ordering diagnostic procedures, such as imaging tests. 

If conservative treatments, such as rest, ice packs, heat, or physical therapy, haven’t worked, you may be a candidate for facet joint injections. 

How should I prepare for facet joint injections?

Before the injections, you might need to stop taking certain medications. On the day of the scheduled procedure, it’s vital to shower and clean your skin using regular soap. Avoid applying lotions or other products to your skin, and make arrangements for someone to drive you home after treatment. 

What can I expect during facet joint injections?

You might change into a hospital gown when you arrive at Dr. Wu’s office. He cleans and disinfects your skin and administers a local anesthetic into your spine near specific vertebrae. 

Using X-ray guidance to achieve optimal precision and accuracy, he injects a steroid and numbing medication into the affected facet joints. You might feel pressure or a slight burning or pinching sensation during the injection. Dr. Wu removes the needle, cleans your skin, and applies a bandage to the injection site.

The procedure often lasts about 10-30 minutes. Afterward, you rest in a recovery area for a short time before heading home. Follow all your post-treatment instructions and call Dr. Wu any time with questions. 

If the facet joint injections successfully relieve your pain, you may undergo additional injections that offer longer-lasting results.

Schedule an evaluation with Dr. David Wu by phone or request one online today to determine if you’re a candidate for facet joint injections.

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