How Is a Facet Block Done?
At the time of your injection, you will be asked to put on a patient gown (opened towards the back), and sign a consent form. Your blood pressure, pulse rate and respiration will also be checked. You will be asked what medications you are presently taking and if you have any allergies to medication. Depending on your pain location and the facet joints to be treated, you will be positioned on your stomach with a pillow under your abdomen [for back], or with a small pillow under your chest and your forehead resting on a small pad [for neck area]. Your blood pressure and heart rate will be constantly monitored. Prior to the procedure, your back will be cleansed with antiseptic solution and the physician will numb the area around the injection. A burning sensation lasting 2-3 seconds is to be expected. You may receive a small dose of Valium, or a similar agent, to help you relax. After that, your doctor will position a special needle into the facet joint. During placement of the needle, yo
