A good medical history and a physical examination by a trained physician will usually clinch the diagnosis. X-rays of the back and neck may help to rule out degenerative changes in the facet joints or disc. Depending on the severity, MRI and CT scans may be ordered by the physician.
Pain physicians at the Pain Management Centre can give an injection of local anaesthetic into the facet joints with continuous X-ray (fluoroscopic) guidance. This is a very accurate method for diagnosing facet joint irritation. If the patient obtains relief, further treatment of the facet joints may proceed with greater confidence.
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