What a Medial Branch Block Evaluates
Medial branch blocks are used to evaluate pain believed to be coming from the facet joints in the neck or low back.
Common Causes of Facet Pain
Arthritis of the facet joints, degenerative changes of the spine, and pain following prior spine surgery.
Purpose of the Injection
The goal is diagnostic—to temporarily numb the medial branch nerves that supply the facet joints and determine whether they are the source of pain. If the injection temporarily relieves your pain, your doctor may recommend radiofrequency ablation for a longer-lasting result.
What to Expect
This is a brief outpatient procedure performed in our pain suite.
During the Procedure
You will be positioned comfortably on your stomach. Using X-ray guidance, a small amount of anesthetic is injected near the medial branch nerves that supply the targeted facet joints.
After the Procedure
You will be asked to monitor your pain response over the next several hours. Patients go home the same day after a short recovery period.
Doctors Who Perform This Procedure
Eric Kano Mayer, MD
Pain Management
Kaleb Shaw, MD
Pain Management
Questions Before or After Your Injection?
Our nursing team is available during business hours to answer questions about medications, activity restrictions, or recovery.
Request a Call‑Back
For emergencies, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Coming in for Your Procedure?
Please arrive 60 minutes early, unless otherwise directed by your surgeon.