Chronic back pain can limit daily activities and reduce quality of life for many adults. When pain stems from the small joints in the spine known as facet joints, patients often seek options that avoid surgery. Facet joint injections offer a targeted approach that may help manage discomfort while supporting mobility.
What Are Facet Joints and Why Do They Cause Pain?
Facet joints sit between each vertebra and guide spinal movement. These joints can become irritated from arthritis, injury, or repetitive stress over time. Inflammation in the area often leads to localized back pain that may radiate to the buttocks or thighs.
Patients in Forest Hills frequently report stiffness after sitting or standing for long periods. Understanding the role of these joints helps explain why injections can address the source of discomfort directly.
Common Conditions Treated with Facet Joint Injections
Facet joint injections serve patients dealing with degenerative changes in the spine. Conditions such as osteoarthritis and facet arthropathy often respond to this approach. The injections deliver medication to reduce inflammation around the affected joints.
Dr. Amir Salem, an interventional radiology specialist at the practice, evaluates each case to determine suitability. Individuals from Queens and surrounding areas find this option useful when physical therapy alone does not provide enough relief.
Signs and Symptoms of Facet Joint Problems
Pain that worsens with extension movements like leaning backward often points to facet issues. Many people notice tenderness when pressing on the lower back or experience morning stiffness that improves with gentle activity. Radiating discomfort into the hips or legs can also occur without true nerve compression.
These symptoms differ from disc-related pain because they tend to stay more localized. A thorough evaluation helps confirm the facet joints as the primary source before proceeding with injections.
The Procedure: Step by Step with Dr. Amir Salem
Dr. Amir Salem performs facet joint injections using imaging guidance for precision. The process begins with the patient positioned comfortably on the procedure table. Local anesthesia numbs the skin, and a thin needle is advanced to the joint under real-time X-ray or ultrasound visualization.
Once placement is confirmed, a combination of corticosteroid and anesthetic medication is delivered. The entire visit usually lasts under an hour, and patients return home the same day. This method allows for accurate delivery while minimizing surrounding tissue disruption.
Preparing for and Recovering from Your Injection
Preparation includes discussing current medications with the care team and arranging a ride home after the appointment. Patients are advised to avoid heavy lifting on the day of the procedure. Most individuals resume light activities within 24 hours.
Recovery timelines vary, yet many report gradual improvement over several days as the medication takes effect. Follow-up visits allow the team to track progress and decide on additional care if needed. Residents of Great Neck and Long Island appreciate the convenience of nearby locations for these visits.
Why Patients in Forest Hills Choose Non-Surgical Pain Relief
Non-surgical options like facet joint injections appeal to those who wish to maintain an active lifestyle without extended downtime. The approach focuses on reducing inflammation at the source rather than altering spinal structure. Patients in Queens often combine these injections with physical therapy for better long-term results.
Dr. Amir Salem works closely with each individual to set realistic expectations based on their specific condition. This collaborative style supports informed decisions about ongoing pain management.
Selecting a Qualified Specialist in Queens and Beyond
Choosing a provider with experience in image-guided procedures ensures accurate placement and safety. The team at M&S Vascular and Orthopedic Group serves patients across Forest Hills, the Bronx, and Great Neck with coordinated care. Board-certified specialists review imaging and medical history before recommending injections.
Clear communication about the process and potential outcomes helps patients feel supported throughout treatment. Local access to interventional radiology expertise reduces travel time for follow-up appointments.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do facet joint injections typically provide relief?
Relief duration varies by individual and condition. Some patients experience several weeks to months of reduced pain, while others may need repeat procedures for sustained comfort.
Are facet joint injections painful?
Most patients report only mild discomfort during the injection due to local anesthesia. Any post-procedure soreness usually resolves within a day or two.
Can I drive myself home after the procedure?
No, arranging transportation is recommended because the medication and positioning may cause temporary lightheadedness or reduced alertness.
Who is a good candidate for this treatment?
Individuals with confirmed facet joint inflammation who have not responded fully to conservative measures often benefit. A consultation with Dr. Amir Salem helps determine appropriateness.
How soon can I return to work after an injection?
Many patients resume desk-based work the next day, though those with physically demanding jobs may need a short period of modified activity.
Call (718) 897-2228 or visit https://www.msorthovasc.com to schedule a consultation with Dr. Amir Salem and learn more about facet joint injections for chronic back pain.