Facet Joint Injections - Anyone had success?

Posted by shellsk24 @shellsk24, Jun 20, 2016

I have just began a series of facet joint injections for chronic lower back pain, due to arthritis and degenerative spine disease. The injections start off small then they add more medication as we continue. I had the first injection 3 days ago. I was told it could take upto 5 days to start feeling the benefits of the injection. The injections (total 6 in L2-L6) hurt like heck, and I have not felt any change in my chronic pain as of yet which is quite depressing. I was so hopeful. I am told the first injection is with just a small amount of anti-inflammatory med, so it may or may not be sufficient. Has anyone else had these? If so what was your experience with the entire process? I'm just wondering if I should proceed.

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@senilecitizen

I had two MBBs done at L4-L5-S1 to determine the source of approx 30 years of lower back pain that has grown worse. The results of the MBBs ( required for Medicare coverage ) did show I was in the 90-95% group where an RFA would bring relief. Had the RFA done and it had zero effect on the pain. My MRI does show artheritis beginning at L4 and progressing down to the S1. I was on Meloxicam for about 5 years but has since become ineffective same with 800 mgs Ibuprofen as needed. I stopped all the meds. I have tried PT and Chiro but no improvement. I was told that I could have an Epidermal but I have had two of them in the past and I said no to that. I am scheduled for a consult with the PA about an RFA do over or Facet Joint Injections. Any comments ?

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My Primary put me on Cymbalta and so far it’s helping with my pain. Gabapentin did nothing but make me feel yucky.

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