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Overcoming Back Pain - Types of Spinal Injections

Feb 06, 2023

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When it comes to back pain, spinal injections can provide relief when used in conjunction with other treatments. Here’s what you need to know about spinal injections.

Spinal injections are a common treatment option for individuals experiencing pain in the back or neck. These injections can be used to diagnose the source of pain, as well as provide relief from symptoms.

Types of Spinal Injections

One type of spinal injection is a nerve block, which involves injecting a local anesthetic or steroid medication directly into the area of the spine where a specific nerve or group of nerves is causing pain. This can provide temporary relief from pain, as well as help to diagnose the specific source of pain.

Facet joint injections are another type of spinal injection which are used to treat pain in the facet joints of the spine. The facet joints are located between the vertebrae and can become inflamed or irritated, causing pain. A facet joint injection involves injecting a local anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the joint to provide relief from pain and inflammation.

A third type of spinal injection is a sacroiliac joint injection, which is used to treat pain in the sacroiliac joint. The sacroiliac joint connects the sacrum, the triangular bone at the bottom of the spine, to the ilium, the upper portion of the hip bone. A sacroiliac joint injection involves injecting a local anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the joint to provide relief from pain and inflammation. A sacroiliac joint injection involves injecting a local anesthetic and steroid medication directly into the joint to provide relief from pain and inflammation. 

Pain in the joints can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

  • Injury or trauma - such as a fall or car accident
  • Arthritis - osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis can cause inflammation and degeneration of the joints
  • Pregnancy - hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the ligaments supporting the joints to loosen causing instability and pain
  • Postural problems - poor posture or can put extra stress on the spine
  • Spinal conditions - Conditions such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis can put pressure on the nerves in the lower back
  • Overuse - athletes and individuals who perform repetitive motions for long periods of time can cause inflammation

It's important to note that while spinal injections can provide relief from pain and inflammation, they are not a cure for the underlying condition. They are typically used in conjunction with other treatments, such as physical therapy and medication management, to provide comprehensive pain relief.

If you're experiencing pain in your back or neck, it's important to speak with a qualified healthcare provider to determine the best treatment options for you. Garden State Pain and Orthopedics is dedicated to providing patients with the most advanced and effective treatments for pain management. Our team of experienced physicians and staff are here to help you find relief from your pain and get back to your life.