An intervention should follow a clear diagnosis, a discussion of evidence and an understanding of your goals.
A technique sometimes considered for selected patients with suspected facet-joint-mediated spinal pain after appropriate assessment and diagnostic procedures. Benefit is variable and not guaranteed.
Patient leaflets: Radiofrequency denervation ↗ · Medial branch blocks ↗
Targeted injections may be used in selected circumstances for diagnosis or symptom management. Potential benefits, limitations and risks are discussed beforehand.
Patient leaflets: General information about injections ↗ · Epidural steroid injection ↗ · Nerve root injection ↗
Local anaesthetic injections can sometimes help clarify a pain generator or provide temporary relief, depending on the condition.
Patient leaflets: Medial branch blocks ↗ · General information about injections ↗
A review of current medicines, effectiveness and adverse effects, including consideration of whether simplification may be appropriate.
Patient leaflets: FPM medicines information ↗
Physiotherapy, rehabilitation, psychological approaches and other non-procedural strategies can be important components of care.
Where appropriate, discussion of additional investigations, specialist referrals or advanced pain interventions.
Read independent Faculty of Pain Medicine leaflets about procedures and pain medicines, including potential benefits, risks and alternatives. Treatment is considered only after an individual assessment.
A careful assessment is the starting point for an individual treatment plan.
Information about common conditions and treatment decisions.