Learn about Facet Joint Injection Treatment in India — how it works, who it is for, recovery timelines, and what to expect before and after surgery. Compare hospitals and doctors experienced in Facet Joint Injection and request assistance for cost estimates or appointments.

About Facet Joint Injection

A Facet Joint Injection is a minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedure performed by pediatric orthopedic specialists to address chronic back pain in children and adolescents. This procedure involves injecting a combination of a local anesthetic and a corticosteroid medication directly into the facet joints of the spine, the small, stabilizing joints between vertebrae. In pediatric orthopedics, it is primarily used to diagnose the precise source of spinal pain and to provide significant, targeted relief from inflammation and discomfort caused by conditions like juvenile arthritis, post-traumatic joint irritation, or overuse injuries. The injection helps reduce swelling, numb pain signals, and improve mobility, often serving as a crucial step in a comprehensive pain management plan. It is typically guided by real-time imaging such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound to ensure pinpoint accuracy and safety for the young patient.

Key Highlights

    Minimally invasive procedure with a small needle, reducing tissue trauma.Provides both diagnostic clarity and therapeutic pain relief in a single session.Performed under image guidance (fluoroscopy/ultrasound) for enhanced precision and safety.Can help avoid or delay the need for more invasive surgical interventions in pediatric patients.Typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing the child to return home the same day.Targeted approach reduces systemic side effects compared to oral medications./ul

Who is this surgery for?

  • Chronic back or neck pain in children and adolescents unresponsive to conservative treatments like physical therapy and medication.
  • Suspected facet joint arthropathy or inflammation secondary to juvenile idiopathic arthritis.
  • Pain following spinal trauma or overuse injuries common in young athletes.
  • Diagnostic evaluation to confirm the facet joint as the primary pain generator before considering further interventions.
  • Management of pain from congenital or developmental spinal abnormalities affecting the facet joints.
  • As part of a multidisciplinary pain management plan for complex pediatric pain syndromes.

How to prepare

  • A thorough pediatric orthopedic evaluation, including medical history, physical exam, and review of imaging (X-rays, MRI).
  • Discussion of the procedure, benefits, and risks with both the child (age-appropriate) and parents/guardians, obtaining informed consent.
  • Fasting for a few hours before the procedure if sedation is planned, as per the anesthesiologist's instructions.
  • Discontinuation of certain medications, like blood thinners, as advised by the doctor, to minimize bleeding risk.
  • Arranging for transportation home post-procedure, as the child may be drowsy from sedation.
  • Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to the appointment.

Risks & possible complications

  • Common temporary side effects include soreness, bruising, or swelling at the injection site.
  • Risk of infection at the injection site, though very low with sterile technique.
  • Allergic reaction to the anesthetic or corticosteroid medication.
  • Temporary increase in pain or a 'cortisone flare' due to the medication.
  • Rare complications include nerve damage, bleeding, or dural puncture (puncture of the spinal membrane).
  • Potential for facial flushing or a temporary rise in blood sugar levels due to corticosteroids.

Recovery & hospital stay

  • Immediate post-procedure monitoring for 30-60 minutes to check for any adverse reactions.
  • The anesthetic provides quick pain relief, while the corticosteroid's anti-inflammatory effects may take a few days to manifest fully.
  • Rest is advised for the remainder of the day; normal, non-strenuous activities can usually be resumed the next day.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or twisting the spine for the first 48-72 hours.
  • Applying ice packs to the injection site can help manage any initial soreness.
  • A follow-up appointment is scheduled to assess the effectiveness of the injection and plan the next steps in treatment, which may include physical therapy.
  • checked Typical hospital stay: 0 days (Outpatient procedure)
  • checked Expected recovery time: 1-3 days for initial soreness; full therapeutic effect assessed over 1-2 weeks

Frequently Asked Questions

If you are considering facet joint injection in India, these questions and answers can help you make a confident, informed decision.

Procedure cost in other countries

Here is an overview of how the estimated cost, hospital stay, and recovery time for facet joint injection compare across other countries where we have data.

Country Estimated cost range Typical stay Recovery time View details
India INR 15 Thousand – 40 Thousand 0 days (Outpatient procedure) ~ 1-3 days for initial soreness; full therapeutic effect assessed over 1-2 weeks Know More
Turkey TRY 52.5 Thousand – 140 Thousand 0 days (Outpatient procedure) ~ 1-3 days for initial soreness; full therapeutic effect assessed over 1-2 weeks Know More
PATIENT REVIEW

Pooja Garcia is a 14-year-old competitive...

Pooja Garcia is a 14-year-old competitive gymnast who has been training since she was 6. For the past 9 months, she has been struggling with persistent, sharp lower back pain that worsens with twisting and backbends. Despite months of physical therapy, rest, and anti-inflammatory medication, the pain persisted, limiting her training and dimming her passion. Her pediatric orthopedic surgeon, after reviewing an MRI, diagnosed her with inflammation and degeneration in the L4-L5 facet joints, likely from repetitive stress. He recommended a diagnostic and therapeutic facet joint injection to confirm the pain source and provide relief. During the procedure, performed under light sedation, Pooja was anxious but the team was reassuring. She felt immediate pressure but no sharp pain. In the days following, she experienced significant relief from the constant ache. While she still requires a careful rehabilitation plan, the injection broke her pain cycle. Emotionally, she transformed from a frustrated, withdrawn athlete who feared her career was over to a hopeful teenager re-engaged with her sport and working diligently with her PT, feeling back in control of her body.

Pediatric Orthopedics for Facet Joint Injection

Explore experienced pediatric orthopedics who regularly perform facet joint injection and provide pre- and post-operative care in India.

Dr. Neeraj Gupta
  • 14 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 700
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Ghaziabad, Ghaziabad

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Prashanth Inna
  • 23 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 850
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bangalore

OPD-desk synced • Updated
Dr. Abhishek Nandi
  • 8 Years Experience
  • Pediatric Orthopedics
Speaks: English, Hindi
Consult Charge ₹ 1000
Available Today
December: 08:00 AM - 08:00 PM

MediFyr Plus Manipal Hospital Mukundapur, Kolkata

OPD-desk synced • Updated