The statistical distribution of members of a population around the population mean. In a gaussian distribution, 68.2% of values fall within Â± 1 standard deviation (SD); 95.4% fall within Â± 2 SD of the mean; and 99.7% fall within Â± 3 SD of the mean. Synonym(s): bell-shaped curve, normal distribution.
Located on the bony extensions of the vertebrae, the surfaces of the facet joints fit together like a three-dimensional puzzle. In the spaces between vertebrae run the nerve rootsâexits off the spinal cord's information highway.
Make an Appointment. Intraarticular Facet Joint Injections. When facet joints regularly found around the spine are inflamed, a facet joint injection is administered to relieve the irritation and diagnose where the patients pain is coming from. Once the skin and tissue above the facet joint is thoroughly numbed with local anesthetic, the physician will use a fluoroscope to insert a needle into the facet joint. The proper positioning of the needle is confirmed with the injection of contrast dye and a soothing and numbing combination of anesthetic and anti-inflammatory steroid is injected. If the pain in the facet joint is relieved upon administration of the medication,the physician will then infer that that particular facet joint is the cause of pain.