Facet joint injections are a consultant-led, X-ray-guided procedure used to diagnose and treat back, or neck pain caused by spinal wear and tear. They deliver targeted medication directly into the small joints of your spine to reduce inflammation and help confirm whether the facet joints are the source of your symptoms. Ramsay offers fast access to experienced pain specialists and transparent self-pay pricing.
What is facet joint pain?
Facet joint pain is one of the most common causes of persistent back and neck discomfort. The facet joints link your vertebrae, stabilising your spine while allowing smooth movement. Over time, these joints can become irritated due to wear and tear (osteoarthritis) or injury.
Lower back facet pain often radiates into your buttocks or thighs, while neck-related facet pain may spread into your shoulders or upper back. If your pain worsens with twisting, bending, or prolonged sitting, your facet joints may be involved.
What happens during a facet joint injection?
A facet joint injection is a day-case procedure that typically takes less than 30 minutes. After numbing your skin with local anaesthetic, your consultant uses X-ray or ultrasound guidance to place the needle precisely into your affected joint. The injection contains a combination of anaesthetic and steroid to calm inflammation and ease pain.
Facet joint injections also have a diagnostic role. If your pain improves afterwards, it helps confirm your facet joint as the source of your symptoms.
Book a consultation to discuss whether a facet joint injection is right for you.
How much do facet joint injections cost?
Ramsay provides fixed, transparent self-pay pricing that is agreed before treatment so you have no unexpected charges. We are recognised by all major private medical insurers and most cover facet joint injections, depending on your policy.
Our facet joint injection cost will be confirmed after your consultation. We offer:
Contact us for a guide price or book a consultation for a personalised quote.
Recovery after a facet joint injection
Most people return to normal daily activities the day after their treatment.
Mild soreness or bruising at the injection site is normal and usually settles within a few days.
Your consultant will advise when you can expect to feel the full benefit of your injection and arrange a follow-up appointment to review your progress.
Facet joint injection side effects
Facet joint injections are generally safe, but all procedures carry some risks. Serious complications are rare.
Common facet joint injection side effects include:
Less common risks include:
Your consultant will explain the risks relevant to you before you consent to treatment.
What next if facet joint injections don't work?
If facet joint injections provide only short-term relief, your consultant may recommend the next appropriate step.
Ramsay offers a full range of interventional pain treatments including:
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Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) - is a longer-lasting treatment that disrupts the nerves carrying pain signals from your facet joints. Add link /radiofrequency-ablation
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Spinal cord stimulation – is considered for chronic pain that has not responded to injections or RFA. Add link /spinal-cord-stimulation
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Further investigation or spinal surgery – may be required if imaging shows a structural cause, and your consultant may discuss options such as lumbar discectomy.
Your pain specialist will guide you through each step and start with the least invasive option, only escalating treatment if clinically appropriate.
Speak to a pain specialist about the right next step for you.
Facet Joint Injection at Ramsay Health Care
Ramsay offers consultant-led pain management with fast access to assessment, imaging, and treatment. Our teams provide personalised care from conservative management through to advanced interventional procedures.
Why choose Ramsay:
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Experienced pain management specialists
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Shorter waiting times than the NHS for your consultation and surgery
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Full spectrum of care, from conservative management through to joint replacement
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Physiotherapy recovery support
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Transparent self-pay pricing with Total Care packages and 0% payment plans
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Most major private medical insurers accepted
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Book an appointment or call 0808 223 0500
Facet Joint Injection FAQs
