Facet Joint Blocks (or Injections) and Selective Nerve Root Blocks (or Injections) are used both diagnostically and therapeutically.  A local anesthetic and steroid are injected directly into either the facet joints of the spine or specific nerve roots. Diagnostically, the injections help to locate the exact nerve or nerve groups that are the source of pain. Therapeutically the injections are used to provide temporary pain relief, making it possible to perform Physical Therapy and daily living tasks comfortably.