When it comes to the duration of pain relief that patients may experience due to a facet block, there really isn't a concrete answer. However, when the source of the pain is located, people usually feel immediate relief due to local anesthesia. The effect of this medication will wear off after a few hours, and it may take two to seven days before patients experience the lasting effects. The amount of time you experience pain relief will vary from person to person.
Some people may only get a few weeks of relief, while others may find that their pain has gone away for months or even years. If the pain recurs, additional injections can be administered. Facet joint injections are often recommended for those suffering from chronic back or neck pain due to arthritis or joint degeneration. These small joints are located at the back of the spine and can be found at all levels, from the lower back to the neck.
It's important to know what to expect after receiving facet joint injections so you can be prepared for the recovery process. Generally, a positive result can be expected to last about four months, although this varies widely and can range from weeks to two months. If the first injection into the facet joint does not relieve the patient's pain, it should not be repeated.