Facet Joint Injection Aftercare Instructions
A day-by-day recovery guide for facet joint injection: what to expect, how to care for yourself, and when to call. Free to read and print.
What to expect
Pain Management Goals
- •The goal is meaningful pain reduction, not always zero pain
- •Combine procedures with physical therapy and lifestyle changes for best results
- •Keep a pain diary to track patterns and improvements
Facet Joint Injection recovery, day by day
After the Procedure
- The injection site may be sore for 1-3 days; this is normal
- The numbing medication wears off in a few hours; initial pain relief is temporary
- Rest for the remainder of the day; no strenuous activity
- Apply ice to the injection/procedure site: 15-20 min on, 20 min off as needed
What to Expect
- The steroid typically takes 3-7 days to reach full effect
- You may feel a 'flare' of increased pain for 24-48 hours as the steroid takes effect
- Resume normal activities gradually over 1-2 days
- Keep a pain diary to track your response to the procedure
Recovery
- Gradually resume normal activities; avoid strenuous exercise for 24-48 hours
- Continue current pain medications as directed (do not change without consulting your doctor)
- Report your pain relief (or lack thereof) at follow-up
- Stay active within your comfort level; avoid complete bed rest
Evaluating Results
- Full steroid effect should be reached; evaluate your pain relief
- Discuss results with your pain specialist at follow-up
- If this injection was helpful, repeat injections may be recommended
- Continue physical therapy and home exercises as prescribed
When to call your provider or 911
- •Signs of infection: increasing redness, swelling, or drainage at the injection site
- •Severe headache after spinal/epidural injection (possible spinal headache)
- •New weakness, numbness, or tingling in arms or legs
- •Fever above 101°F
- •Loss of bowel or bladder control
- •Severe pain that is dramatically worse than before the procedure
When in doubt, call your clinic. For a medical emergency, call 911.
Recovery milestones
- Day 5
Steroid takes effect
Anti-inflammatory effect building over 3-7 days
- Day 14
Evaluate response
Assess pain relief and discuss next steps with your doctor
- Day 14
Full effect
Treatment at full benefit; plan ongoing management
For clinics
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