Cervical facet joint injections are a minimally invasive technique used for the relief of neck and shoulder pain, mainly when the cause is osteoarthritis or inflammation of the small joints of the cervical spine.
Technical procedure
The technique involves injection of a local anesthetic, with or without corticosteroid, directly into the cervical facet joints.
Therapeutic goal
• Desensitization of irritated articular structures
• Reduction of inflammation
• Pain relief
• Improvement of mobility without inducing complete anesthesia
Indications
• Cervical pain
• Cervicobrachial pain
• Osteoarthritis of the small cervical facet joints
• Chronic pain after trauma or overuse
Benefits
• Significant pain reduction
• Improved range of motion and function
Clinical approach
In most cases, the procedure is performed using anatomical landmarks or ultrasound guidance. In rare cases, fluoroscopic guidance may be required.
