Spinal Injections
Facet Joint Injections
Image-Guided Facet Joint Injections in Phoenix, AZ — Target Arthritic Spine Joint Pain
When the small facet joints of the spine become arthritic, they can be a major source of back and neck pain. A facet joint injection calms them — and confirms them as the source. Performed under live X-ray by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS.
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Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
A facet joint injection places anti-inflammatory medication directly into one of the small joints at the back of the spine — relieving the pain of facet arthritis and confirming the facet joint as the source. It's both a treatment and a key diagnostic step before radiofrequency ablation.
Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500How a Facet Joint Injection Works
What Is a Facet Joint Injection?
The facet joints are small paired joints at the back of each spinal segment that guide movement. When they wear down with arthritis, they can cause localized back or neck pain that worsens with bending backward or twisting. A facet joint injection delivers steroid and numbing medication right into the joint, relieving pain and confirming that the facet joint is responsible.
Conditions We Treat
Chronic Pain Syndromes
Back or neck pain that persists for months and becomes self-reinforcing.
Learn MorePost-Traumatic Arthritis
Spinal arthritis that develops after an earlier injury to a joint.
Learn MoreAm I a Candidate?
Facet injections are considered when arthritic (facet-driven) back or neck pain hasn't responded to conservative care. Because they're diagnostic as well as therapeutic, good relief tells us the facet joint is the source — and that radiofrequency ablation is likely to give you months of relief.
Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500Benefits & Risks
Targeted relief of arthritic facet pain; confirms the pain source; quick outpatient procedure; the gateway to long-lasting ablation when appropriate.
Temporary soreness, a brief rise in pain or blood sugar, and, rarely, infection. Your surgeon reviews your specific risks beforehand.
Life Beyond the Pain
How It Works & What to Expect
It's a quick outpatient procedure of about 15–30 minutes. Under live X-ray guidance, the needle is placed precisely into the targeted facet joint and the medication is delivered. Most patients feel only brief pressure.
Recovery & Results
You can usually return to normal activity the same or next day. Relief may last from weeks to months. When a facet injection relieves your pain but the relief fades, it's the clearest sign you're a candidate for longer-lasting radiofrequency ablation.
Why Choose Our Spine Specialists in Phoenix
Choosing the right spine specialist in Phoenix matters. At Desert Spine and Pain, your care is led by Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS — a physician who is both a board-certified spine surgeon and a neurosurgeon. That dual expertise is rare, and it means one expert can guide you across the full spectrum of care — from a simple injection to complex surgery — and recommend what is genuinely best for you, whether you need a spine doctor for conservative care or a surgeon when surgery is truly the answer.
A rare dual credential — so the specialist who treats you can also perform surgery if it's ever needed.
Most patients get better without surgery. We only advance when your condition truly requires it.
No referral needed. We make it straightforward to see a top spine specialist, even out-of-network.
24/7 concierge response and close coordination with personal-injury attorneys.
Insurance & Out-of-Network
We welcome out-of-network patients and will explain your likely costs and coverage before anything is scheduled — no surprises, and no referral required.
Proudly Serving the Greater Phoenix, Arizona Area
Patients travel to Desert Spine and Pain from across Arizona for specialist spine care — because the right spine surgeon is worth the drive. We welcome patients from Phoenix and communities throughout the Valley and beyond:
…and surrounding Arizona communities. Out-of-network patients are welcome, and no referral is required — schedule a consultation.
Target arthritic spine pain at the joint.
See a dual board-certified spine surgeon and neurosurgeon in Phoenix for an image-guided facet joint injection.
Book a Consultation — (602) 566-9500Facet Joint Injections: Frequently Asked Questions
What does a facet joint injection tell you?
If it relieves your pain, it confirms the facet joint as the source — which means radiofrequency ablation is likely to provide you with months of relief.
How long does relief last?
From weeks to months. Strong but temporary relief is exactly the pattern that makes you a good candidate for longer-lasting ablation.
Does it hurt?
Most patients feel only brief pressure. The skin is numbed and the procedure is quick, done under live X-ray guidance.
Do I need a referral in Phoenix?
No. You can schedule directly with our Phoenix spine specialists, and we welcome out-of-network patients.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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Phone: (602) 566-9500
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If you’re suffering from chronic neck or back pain that may be related to arthritis or joint inflammation, facet joint injections could provide the relief you need. Dr. Greenwald and his experienced team will evaluate your condition, review your imaging, and determine whether this minimally invasive treatment is right for you. Every step you take toward pain relief brings you closer to comfort, flexibility, and a stronger spine. Schedule your consultation today and let Dr. Greenwald help you restore movement and live pain-free.
Voted Best Spine Doctor
Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FAANS, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon and neurosurgeon with advanced expertise in facet joint injection. He commonly uses it to treat conditions such as facet disease, spinal osteoarthritis, and degenerative joint disease, which can cause pain, numbness, or weakness. Using advanced, minimally invasive techniques whenever possible, Dr. Greenwald relieves nerve compression and instability while protecting healthy tissue and preserving spinal stability. His skill and patient-centered approach help patients throughout the greater Phoenix, Arizona area experience meaningful pain relief, reduced recovery time, and restored mobility.
Book your Spine Care Consultation Today!
Desert Spine and Pain
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