Dr Hussien El-Maghraby uses facet joint treatments to accurately diagnose and relieve a common source of spinal pain.
What is a facet joint procedure?
A facet joint procedure is a minimally invasive treatment for back or neck pain caused by the small joints that connect the vertebrae. These joints can become inflamed or arthritic over time, leading to stiffness, aching pain and reduced movement. Dr Hussien El-Maghraby uses facet joint treatments to accurately diagnose and relieve this common source of spinal pain.
How do facet joint procedures work?
Facet joint pain occurs when inflammation or degeneration irritates the joint surfaces or the small nerves that supply them. Treatment may involve injecting local anaesthetic and steroid into the joint, or targeting the nerve supply to reduce pain transmission.
By calming inflammation or interrupting pain signals, facet joint procedures can significantly improve comfort and mobility.
Who can benefit from a facet joint procedure?
Patients with localised neck or lower back pain that worsens with extension, twisting or prolonged standing may benefit. Facet joint pain often does not radiate far into the arms or legs, making it distinct from disc-related nerve pain.
This treatment is commonly recommended when imaging shows arthritic changes and other causes of pain have been excluded.
Dr El-Maghraby will assess posture, movement patterns, and imaging findings to confirm whether the facet joints are the likely source of pain.
What happens during a facet joint procedure
Facet joint injections are performed under local anaesthetic with image guidance for accuracy. The procedure is quick, usually lasting 20 to 30 minutes.
In some cases, diagnostic injections are performed first to confirm the source of pain before longer-lasting treatments are offered.
What does recovery involve?
Recovery is typically rapid, with most patients resuming normal activities within a day. Pain relief may be immediate or develop over several days. Because muscles and ligaments are preserved, there is minimal disruption to daily life.
Facet joint procedures offer a safe, targeted solution for mechanical spinal pain and can significantly improve quality of life without surgery.
Dr Hussien El-Maghraby,
experienced spinal surgeon
With over 20 years of UK consultant neurosurgery experience, Dr Hussien El-Maghraby is a leading spinal surgeon based in the heart of London.
Dr El-Maghraby specialises exclusively in minimally invasive spine care, offering modern, patient-centred treatments for back pain, neck pain and spinal disorders – from laser disc decompression to advanced injections, cement augmentation and 3D/AI-guided spinal decompression.
Understanding the needs of international patients, Dr El-Maghraby places special emphasis on serving people from the Middle East visiting London for treatment – offering clear communication, compassionate care, and expert spinal surgery under UK standards.