Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections

Effective Pain Relief 

Chronic neck and back pain can severely impact your daily life. At Arizona Pain Solutions, we offer Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections to help manage and reduce this pain. These advanced treatments target the source of pain, providing relief and improving your quality of life.

What Are Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections?

Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections are procedures that target the small nerves connected to the facet joints in your spine. The facet joints help support the spine and allow for flexibility and movement. When these joints become inflamed or irritated, they can cause significant pain. Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections help diagnose and treat this pain by delivering medication directly to the affected areas.

How Do Medial Branch Blocks Work?

Medial Branch Blocks involve injecting a local anesthetic near the medial branch nerves, which transmit pain signals from the facet joints to the brain. By temporarily numbing these nerves, the procedure helps determine if the facet joints are the source of your pain. If you experience relief from the block, it confirms that the facet joints are involved.

How Do Facet Joint Injections Work?

Facet Joint Injections involve injecting a mixture of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid directly into the facet joint. The anesthetic provides immediate pain relief, while the corticosteroid reduces inflammation, offering longer-term relief. This treatment helps reduce pain and improve joint function, making it easier to move and perform daily activities.

Benefits of Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections 

  • Targeted Pain Relief

Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections deliver medication directly to the source of pain. By targeting the specific nerves and joints causing discomfort, these injections provide effective and localized relief. This precision helps reduce inflammation and alleviate pain in the neck or back, allowing patients to experience significant improvement in their symptoms.


  • Quick Procedure

The entire process of administering a Medial Branch Block or Facet Joint Injection typically takes about 30 minutes. This includes preparation, the actual injection, and a brief monitoring period afterward. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, so patients can return home the same day, minimizing disruption to their daily routines.


  • Minimally Invasive

These injections involve only a small needle insertion, eliminating the need for surgery. The minimally invasive nature of the procedure reduces the risk of complications, such as infections or excessive bleeding, and promotes quicker recovery times compared to surgical options. Patients generally experience less pain and faster healing.


  • Diagnostic Tool

Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections serve as valuable diagnostic tools. By temporarily numbing specific nerves or joints, these injections help confirm the exact source of pain. If the patient experiences significant pain relief following the injection, it indicates that the targeted area is indeed the pain generator. This information is crucial for developing an effective long-term treatment plan.


  • Improved Mobility

By reducing pain and inflammation, these treatments allow for greater ease of movement and improved function in daily activities. Patients often find that they can perform physical tasks more comfortably and with less restriction. Improved mobility enhances overall quality of life, enabling patients to engage in activities they may have previously avoided due to pain.

Who Can Benefit from These Treatments?

Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections are ideal for people with chronic neck or back pain that hasn’t responded to other treatments. Conditions like arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and spinal stenosis can cause significant discomfort. A thorough evaluation will determine if these treatments are suitable for your condition.

What to Expect During the Procedure

These procedures are typically performed on an outpatient basis. You will lie on your stomach, and the injection site will be cleaned and numbed with a local anesthetic. Using X-ray guidance, the physician will insert a needle into the targeted area and inject the medication. The entire process usually takes about 30 minutes. After the procedure, you will be monitored for a short time before going home.

Recovery and Aftercare

After the procedure, it is normal to feel some soreness at the injection site. This usually resolves within a few days. Patients should rest and avoid strenuous activities for the first 24 hours. Pain relief may be felt immediately due to the local anesthetic, while the corticosteroid may take a few days to reduce inflammation and provide lasting relief. Follow-up appointments will help track your progress and address any concerns.

Risks and Considerations

While Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections are generally safe, potential risks include infection, bleeding, and nerve damage. These complications are rare, but it’s important to discuss any concerns with your physician. Understanding the risks and benefits can help you make an informed decision about your treatment.

General Questions

Hi there! Have some questions about our company? Find the answers below. 

  • Is the procedure painful?

    Most patients feel minimal discomfort due to the local anesthetic used during the injection. The numbing agent ensures that the area is desensitized, making the procedure as comfortable as possible.

  • Can the procedure be repeated?

    Yes, if needed, the injections can be repeated to maintain pain relief. Your doctor will determine the appropriate timing and frequency based on your specific condition and response to the initial treatment.

  • What conditions can be treated with Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections?

    These treatments are effective for conditions such as arthritis, degenerative disc disease, and chronic neck or back pain. They help reduce inflammation and provide targeted pain relief.

  • How many injections will I need?

    The number of injections varies based on individual needs and the specific condition being treated. Some patients may experience significant relief after one injection, while others may require a series of injections for optimal results.

  • How effective are Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections?

    The effectiveness varies among patients. Many individuals experience significant pain relief and improved function, which can last for several weeks to months. However, the degree of relief can depend on the specific condition and other individual factors.

  • Are there any alternatives to Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections?

    Yes, alternative treatments include physical therapy, oral medications, nerve ablations, and in some cases, surgery. Your doctor will discuss the best treatment options for your specific condition.

Why Choose Arizona Pain Solutions for Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections?

At Arizona Pain Solutions, we focus on providing effective and personalized pain management in Scottsdale, Phoenix, and Gilbert, AZ. Our experienced professionals use advanced techniques to ensure the best outcomes for our patients. We understand the impact of chronic pain and aim to help you find lasting relief. With a focus on local care, we are dedicated to improving your quality of life through treatments like Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections. 

Contact Us Today

If you’re struggling with chronic neck or back pain, Medial Branch Blocks and Facet Joint Injections may provide the relief you need. Contact Arizona Pain Solutions today to schedule a consultation and start your journey toward a pain-free life.