Do Cervical Facet Injections Work for Treating Whiplash?

Whiplash can be a real pain in the neck, both physically and emotionally. But the good news is that you don’t have to suffer through your pain and discomfort. There are a variety of treatments available to help ease your pain, and one option is cervical facet injections. Read on to learn about how this effective treatment can help treat whiplash.

What Are Cervical Facet Injections for Whiplash?

Cervical facet injections are clinical procedures designed to target inflamed or injured joints in the neck. Using an x-ray as a guide, your medical provider will inject the facet joint within the neck with a steroid that reduces the pain. Many patients experience noticeable pain relief following the injection.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Cervical Facet Injections for Whiplash?

Cervical facet injections may provide much-needed relief for individuals experiencing these symptoms. This treatment is typically recommended for patients who’ve been in a car accident or experienced some other jarring force that has caused damage to the neck’s soft tissues.

Any patient who has tried other treatments without success and is still experiencing significant neck pain is a good candidate for cervical facet injections. If you’re considering this treatment option, consult with the medical team at Impact Medical Group to determine if cervical facet injections are right for you.

The Cervical Facet Injection Process

A cervical facet injection is a simple, safe procedure with few side effects or risks. If your medical team suggests a cervical facet injection to treat your whiplash pain, here’s what you can expect from the procedure:

Preparing for the Procedure. Typically, patients are required to fast the day before the procedure. Your doctor will identify the area of the neck where the injection will be administered and clean it with an antiseptic.
Identifying the Facet Joint. Your doctor will use a fluoroscope (x-ray machine) to identify the facet joint that’s causing you pain. Once identified, the doctor may inject a local anesthetic and mild sedation.
Performing the Injection. Your doctor will perform the injection, inserting the needle so that it reaches the affected facet joint. She’ll inject a strong steroid into the joint, then the area is cleaned and dressed. You may feel mild discomfort at the injection site, but this will pass very quickly. The whiplash pain relief from the procedure can last several months, but future injections may be required if the pain resurfaces.

Are Cervical Facet Injections the Solution for Your Whiplash Pain?

Suffering from whiplash pain? You don’t have to go it alone. Reach out to the caring medical team at Impact Medical Group of Clearwater to learn if you’re a good candidate for cervical facet injections or other treatments that can reduce your whiplash pain. Call us today at (727) 292-0200 to schedule your free medical evaluation.