Side Effects of a Cervical Facet Injection
A cervical facet injection of a steroid called cortisone can reduce the swelling and pain of facet joint syndrome in the neck. Although serious side effects are uncommon, the injection does have risks.
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Background
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Facet joint syndrome is inflammation and pain in the facet joints, which are the connections between the vertebrae of the spine.
Pain
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The most common side effect of a cervical facet injection is temporary pain at the injection site.
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Cortisone Side Effects
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The possible side effects of the cortisone used in the injections include weight gain, increase in blood sugar (especially in diabetics), water retention and suppression of your body's natural production of cortisone.
Injury
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The injection can also potentially cause tissue injury, infection and bleeding, which in or near the spine can cause nerve damage. According to Midwest Orthopaedics at Rush, in extremely rare cases, injections have caused severe nerve damage and death.
Contraindications
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According to the Redding Anesthesia Associates Medical Group, you should not have a cervical facet injection if you are allergic to the injected medications, are taking a blood thinning medication or have an active infection.
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