Facet joint blocks diagnose and treat pain in the facet joint at the same time. Using fluoroscopy (x-ray in motion), an interventional radiologist injects a small amount of anesthetic medication and/or cortisone into the facet joint or the nerves surrounding the joint. The injection is given to temporarily reduce pain and inflammation in the joint. If the patient’s pain is relieved, then it is a good indication that the facet joint is causing the pain. Facet joint blocks are typically done after a patient has undergone CT or MRI for diagnosis

Facet joint blocks diagnose and treat pain in the facet joint at the same time. Using fluoroscopy (x-ray in motion), an interventional radiologist injects a small amount of anesthetic medication and/or cortisone into the facet joint or the nerves surrounding the joint. The injection is given to temporarily reduce pain and inflammation in the joint. If the patient’s pain is relieved, then it is a good indication that the facet joint is causing the pain. Facet joint blocks are typically done after a patient has undergone CT or MRI for diagnosis