Facet Injection done, feels much better! - Arthritis Message Board

donna-virginia · 06-25-2003, 07:46 AM

Hi guys,
I had that facet inject done in my cervical spine, and I am very pleased so far. It feels much better already,and they said i wouldn't feel the full effect of the steriods for several days! One question though, anyone had microwave radiofrequency shots? they said that is another option that works very well.
-Donna

HikingFan · 07-06-2003, 09:36 PM

Hi Donna

I'm from VA too!

I am having facet joint injections in a week for some neck and spine issues (arthritis and pinched nerves). I haven't heard many success stories yet, so your post interested me. Can you tell me a little more about your history, and any advice you have for me going into the procedure? Thanks!

donna-virginia · 07-07-2003, 09:09 AM

Hi fellow-virginian!
Well, unfortunately, I hate to tell you that the relief was short-lived. I don't know if they just didn't get all of the spots that were painful, or if now I have other new painful spots, but I'm having quite a bit of pain again. The doc said maybe i had a placebo effect. Dag! Well, my history is have had osteoarthritis of the cervical spine at C1 and C2 for the past year. Have tried various pain meds, and wanted to do something to try to avoid having to take pills. I hate taking pills. But I'm not sure if they'll want to do more facet injections, I'm waiting to hear back from the doctor. I really hope you have better luck! As far as advice re the procedure, it's not bad at all. You barely feel anything (after the local anesthetic - which stings just a little). After that tho, all I felt is some pressure when the needle went in, and a few little pin pricks (which I'm guessing is when he got close to a nerve). My only advice would be to try to relax. I got a little nervous, and started to feel like I was going to pass out. But it was all unnecessary, coz it was mainly painless and over with very quick. Best of luck to you!!!
-Donna

HikingFan · 07-07-2003, 11:31 PM

Thanks Donna! That was very helpful advice.

Good luck to you

NancyH · 07-08-2003, 09:37 PM

I've had facet joint injections for three years for my arthritis and spine disease. They are short lived most of the time but I will say after living with cervical pain 24/7 for over 25 yrs it was a relief even for just awhile. I'll be starting them back up again in a few months(can only have so many in a 6 mo period)as for pain, it's not near as bad as the pain you are living with anyway!