Anaesthetist and Pain Management Consultant
Facet Medial branch block
Degeneration, or wear-and-tear, changes within the small joints of the back can often lead to inflammation and constant lower back pain. This pain can radiate across the lower back or down to the buttocks or back of the thighs.
Facet medial brach blocks can effectively confirm if the facet joints are the source of the pain and provide relief. The procedure is performed on a day surgery basis. The injections are performed by injecting local anaesthetic (LA) and steroid under X-ray guidance. The X-ray helps the consultant to precisely deliver the medication around the facet joints.
If the procedure is successful and good pain relief is obtained for a few months, the patient may be a candidate for a radio frequency denervation of the facet joints which provides Long lasting relief.