FACET JOINTS
Joints located on the back of the spine on each side where one vertebra slightly overlaps the adjacent vertebrae. They guide and allow the complicated movements of the spine. They get are like the facets of a diamond, which is smooth and have almost no friction.
FLUOROSCOPY
X-ray like imaging (which uses much less radiation) of a part of the body that is displayed on a screen or monitor in the block suite - this facilitates and assures proper placement of the needle and medication. There is also an intensifier, which magnifies the image, and improves the accuracy of the treatment. Furthermore, a hard copy can be made for insurance, medical legal and purposes of comparison.
INFLAMMATION
Tissue reaction to irritation
SYMPATHETIC NERVES
A network of nerves extending the length of the spine that control some of the involuntary functions of the body such as opening and narrowing blood vessels. They are involved in RSD or Chronic Regional Pain Syndrome.
FACET JOINT SYNDROME
A constellation of symptoms which result in diffuse pains that do not fit a clear nerve root pattern (e.g. not sciatica), these pains are worsened with movement of the spine, poor posture, often sleep, sometimes associated with cold burning sensations, usually worsened by cold damp weather and are now known to emanate from the tiny medial branch nerves that supply the facet joint.
FACET NEUROTOMY
Is a procedure that results in interruption of the nerve supply to a facet joint.
PAIN BLOCK
Is an anesthetic injection near or in a certain area that is thought to cause or generate pain. |
New York City Office