Intra-articular Facet Joint Injections (PRP or CSI)
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Arthritis and joint wear can cause severe inflammation inside the facet joints of your spine, leading to stiffness and chronic back or neck pain. Our experienced pain specialists can directly treat this inflammation using image-guided Intra-articular Facet Joint Injections, offering either Corticosteroids (CSI) or regenerative Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) to heal tissue and restore your mobility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Intra-articular Facet Joint Injection?
“Intra-articular” means inside the joint. This procedure involves injecting medication directly into the capsule of the facet joint in your spine. It is used to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve the range of motion in patients suffering from facet joint osteoarthritis or injury.
What is the Difference Between PRP and CSI?
A Corticosteroid Injection (CSI) uses powerful anti-inflammatory medication mixed with a local anesthetic to rapidly reduce swelling and provide quick pain relief. Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP), on the other hand, uses concentrated platelets from your own blood to promote natural tissue healing and long-term joint regeneration.
Why Would I Need This Procedure?
If conservative treatments like physical therapy or oral anti-inflammatories have failed to control your neck or back pain, your doctor may recommend this injection. It is especially effective for localized pain that worsens when you twist or bend backward.
What Happens During the Injection?
Your doctor will numb the skin with a local anesthetic. Using fluoroscopy (live X-ray) or ultrasound guidance, a small needle is carefully guided directly into the affected facet joint. Contrast dye may be used to confirm placement before the PRP or corticosteroid medication is slowly delivered.
When Will I Feel Relief?
If you receive a CSI, the local anesthetic provides immediate relief, and the steroid usually kicks in within 2 to 5 days. For PRP, the healing process is gradual; you may notice improvements over several weeks as your body naturally repairs the damaged joint tissues.
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