Overview
The facet joints are small stabilising joints located at the back of the spine. They guide movement and help support the neck. When these joints become irritated—due to wear‑and‑tear, posture strain, arthritis or injury—they can produce localised neck pain, stiffness and discomfort that may spread into the shoulders or upper back.
A cervical facet joint block delivers medication directly to the affected joints or the nerves that supply them. The aim is to reduce irritation, calm pain signals and support improved movement. In many cases, the procedure also helps confirm whether the facet joints are the main source of pain.
Who this treatment helps
A cervical facet joint block may be considered for people with:
- Localised neck pain made worse by turning or bending
- Stiffness or aching around the back of the neck
- Pain following whiplash or repetitive strain
- Discomfort spreading into the shoulders or upper back
- Symptoms linked to facet joint irritation on examination or imaging
- Persistent pain despite medication or physiotherapy
A consultation is required to confirm suitability and rule out other causes of neck pain.
What is a Cervical Facet Joint Block?
A cervical facet joint block involves placing a small amount of local anaesthetic, sometimes combined with steroid, into or around the facet joints. In many cases, the medication is placed near the medial branch nerves—tiny nerves that carry pain signals from the joints.
Imaging guidance such as fluoroscopy or ultrasound may be used to support accuracy.
The procedure can be both:
- Diagnostic: Helps determine whether the facet joints are the source of pain.
- Therapeutic: May reduce inflammation and ease symptoms.
If the block provides good short‑term relief, radiofrequency treatment may be discussed as a longer‑lasting option.
What to expect during the procedure
- Your consultant reviews the plan and answers any final questions.
- You lie comfortably on the procedure table.
- The skin over the neck is cleaned and numbed with local anaesthetic.
- A fine needle is guided to the facet joint or medial branch nerve, often using imaging.
- A small amount of medication is injected.
- You rest briefly before going home.
The procedure usually takes 10–20 minutes.
After the procedure
- Mild soreness at the injection site is common.
- Temporary numbness or warmth in the neck may occur.
- Some people notice improvement within hours, while others may take a few days.
- Normal activities can usually be resumed the same day, avoiding strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
- Your consultant may recommend physiotherapy or follow‑up treatments depending on your response.
Benefits
- May reduce neck pain linked to facet joint irritation
- Helps identify whether the facet joints are the source of symptoms
- Can improve mobility and comfort
- May reduce reliance on medication
- Minimally invasive with a short recovery time
- Can guide future treatment planning, including radiofrequency options
Possible risks and side effects
Cervical facet joint blocks are generally safe when performed by experienced clinicians. Possible effects include:
- Temporary numbness or mild weakness
- Local soreness or bruising
- Light‑headedness
- Rarely, infection or bleeding
Your consultant will discuss individual risks during your assessment.
When to consider other options
If symptoms persist or the block provides limited benefit, your consultant may discuss:
- Medial branch radiofrequency treatment
- Cervical epidural injections
- Trigger point injections
- Medication review
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation
- Combined approaches for complex neck pain
Safety note
Please inform your consultant if you take blood thinners, have allergies, diabetes, active infection, are pregnant, or have had previous reactions to local anaesthetic. You may need someone to drive you home depending on how you feel after the procedure.
Arrange a consultation to discuss whether a cervical facet joint block may be appropriate for you.