Injection

Cervical Facet Joint Injection

A cervical facet injection is a straightforward procedure commonly used to relieve neck pain, shoulder discomfort, and certain headache symptoms. The facet joints in the cervical spine are covered by a thin protective membrane, which can become irritated or damaged due to injuries such as whiplash or from natural wear and tear over time. When these joints are inflamed, the surrounding neck muscles often tighten, leading to painful spasms, stiffness, and restricted movement.

To ease these symptoms, a mixture of local anesthetic and corticosteroid medication is carefully injected into the affected facet joints. This reduces inflammation, numbs pain signals, and relaxes nearby muscles, allowing for improved comfort and mobility.

While facet joint injections usually provide temporary pain relief lasting several weeks to months, symptoms may return once the effect fades. For lasting improvement, it is important to follow up with physiotherapy. Targeted exercises and posture training after the injection can strengthen the neck, enhance flexibility, and reduce the risk of recurring pain or re-injury.

Symptoms After a Cervical Injection

It is common to feel some discomfort once the local anaesthetic wears off. Pain relief may take 3–5 days to take full effect, although some patients notice improvement sooner or slightly later.

Importance of Physiotherapy After a Cervical Injection

Physiotherapy is a key part of recovery following a cervical injection. At Physio.co.uk, your physiotherapist will guide you through a structured rehabilitation programme to help maintain results, prevent recurrence, and reduce the need for surgery.

The injection provides a window of pain relief that creates the ideal foundation for physiotherapy. During this time, treatment focuses on restoring flexibility, improving strength, and enabling you to move confidently in your daily activities.

Physiotherapy goals include:

  • Maximising the benefits of the injection while inflammation is reduced
  • Teaching effective self-management strategies
  • Restoring safe movement for everyday tasks like driving, lifting, and reaching
  • Improving posture during sitting, standing, and sleeping
  • Strengthening muscles to enhance flexibility and prevent re-injury
  • Returning you to the hobbies and activities you enjoy

1–2 Weeks Post-Injection

In the first two weeks, your physiotherapist will assess how symptoms affect your daily routine and create a tailored treatment plan. Early therapy often includes:

  • Gentle range of movement exercises (active and assisted)
  • Stretching to improve soft tissue length
  • Soft tissue massage to ease spasms and improve relaxation
  • Pain management techniques
  • Positioning advice for comfort and support in lying and sitting
  • Guidance on safe, careful movements to reduce discomfort and build confidence

2–6 Weeks Post-Injection

As recovery progresses, focus shifts to building strength and flexibility. Treatment may include:

  • Continuation of movement-based exercises to strengthen the neck and back
  • Graded joint mobilisation to reduce stiffness and improve joint motion
  • Fitness activities such as walking, swimming, or stationary cycling
  • Ergonomic advice to optimise posture and movement at home or work

6–12 Weeks Post-Injection

In this stage, exercises become more advanced, incorporating functional and recreational activities that matter to you. Treatment often includes:

  • Isometric neck exercises to maintain strength and reduce reinjury risk
  • Stretching through full range to improve flexibility
  • Ongoing aerobic exercises (walking, cycling, swimming)
  • Task-specific exercises tailored to your lifestyle or sporting needs

12+ Weeks Post-Injection

Beyond three months, physiotherapy focuses on achieving long-term recovery. You can expect:

  • Full restoration of movement in the neck
  • Progressive strengthening exercises
  • Functional and sports-specific training
  • Long-term self-management strategies

With structured rehabilitation at acephysiosports.com, patients can achieve lasting improvements in pain reduction, flexibility, muscle strength, and overall function—helping you return to a pain-free, active lifestyle.

To arrange an assessment with AcephysioSports.com, please contact us or call +65 8153 5374. Alternatively, you can book an appointment online today!

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