Injection

Lumbar Facet Injection

A lumbar facet injection is a minimally invasive pain management procedure designed to ease discomfort and inflammation in the lower back caused by irritated facet joints. This type of pain often stems from arthritis, repetitive strain, or spinal injuries. The injection delivers a mix of a corticosteroid (to reduce inflammation) and a local anaesthetic (to numb pain) directly into or around the affected joint. While the relief may last from a few days to several months, combining the injection with a structured physiotherapy program helps achieve lasting results by improving mobility, strength, and posture—enabling a safe return to normal daily activities.

Facet injections are often beneficial for easing pain and inflammation in the facet joints caused by conditions such as:

  • Spinal stenosis: A narrowing of the spinal canal that compresses nerve roots, leading to lower back and leg pain, particularly during walking or standing.
  • Sciatica: Pain radiating along the sciatic nerve, typically felt in the buttocks and extending down one or both legs.
  • Arthritis: Degeneration of joint cartilage that causes inflammation, stiffness, and restricted movement in the spine.

After the lumbar facet injection:

Mild soreness or tenderness around the injection site is common. You will be observed for about 30 minutes post-procedure to ensure your safety before discharge. Many patients—around half—experience noticeable pain relief that can last from a few days up to several months, allowing greater comfort and improved mobility during daily activities.

Physiotherapy After a Thoracic Injection

Beginning physiotherapy soon after your thoracic injection is essential to achieve optimal recovery and long-term results. Your physiotherapy plan will be tailored to address your specific symptoms and areas of concern identified during the initial assessment. A combination of manual therapy, targeted exercises, and personalized advice will help restore mobility, strengthen supporting muscles, and improve posture—ensuring a faster recovery and lasting relief from discomfort.

1–2 Weeks

In the early stages after your lumbar injection, your physiotherapist will focus on managing pain and inflammation through gentle techniques and guided advice. Treatments may include electrotherapy, heat or ice application, and education on posture, positioning, and movement patterns that reduce strain on your back. You will begin light range of motion and stretching exercises to encourage gentle movement without aggravating pain. Soft tissue massage may also be used to relieve muscle tension and improve blood flow. Your program will be fully individualized to optimize your recovery and prevent re-injury. You should feel more confident resuming normal daily activities or returning to work soon after this stage.

2–6 Weeks

During this phase, physiotherapy progresses toward improving core stability and flexibility. Strengthening your lower abdominal and spinal muscles will help provide better support for the lower back. Gentle joint mobilization and continued stretching exercises will help increase spinal flexibility and reduce stiffness. Low-impact cardiovascular exercises such as walking, swimming, or stationary cycling will be introduced to enhance endurance and overall fitness. The goal is to build movement confidence and maintain pain-free motion.

6–12 Weeks

By this stage, physiotherapy will emphasize functional strength training and improving your ability to perform everyday activities such as sitting, standing, driving, and household tasks. Exercises will include isometric core activation and controlled strengthening routines with gradual progression in resistance. Continued aerobic conditioning and flexibility training will ensure that spinal muscles are strong and stable, supporting your long-term recovery.

12+ Weeks

In the final phase, your physiotherapist will help you achieve full functional recovery by refining posture, maintaining flexibility, and maximizing core strength. Focus will be placed on ensuring your lumbar spine remains stable and resilient during all daily and occupational activities.

Overall, physiotherapy following a lumbar injection plays a vital role in restoring pain-free movement, enhancing muscle control, and preventing future flare-ups. With consistent guidance and a personalized approach, you’ll regain mobility, confidence, and the ability to return to the activities you enjoy most.

To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.

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