Medial Branch Blocks (Cervical/Lumbar)

Chronic neck or back pain from facet joint issues can significantly impact your daily life. Medial branch blocks offer targeted pain relief by precisely blocking nerve signals from inflamed facet joints, helping you return to the activities you love.

Precision pain relief for facet joint conditions—all under one roof.

Find a Spine, Neck & Back Specialist Schedule Your Consultation

Schedule Your Consultation

Our pain management specialists will evaluate your condition and determine if medial branch blocks are right for you.
(947) 243-2604

Your Treatment Options for Medial Branch Blocks (Cervical/Lumbar)

At Synergy Health Partners, our pain management physicians use advanced imaging guidance to perform precise medial branch blocks for cervical and lumbar facet joint pain. We offer comprehensive care from initial diagnosis through follow-up treatments.
  • Board-certified pain management physicians with extensive experience
  • State-of-the-art fluoroscopic guidance for precise needle placement
  • Outpatient procedures performed in our accredited surgery centers
  • Comprehensive follow-up care and additional treatment options

Non-Surgical Treatments

Start With the Least-Invasive Options

Most patients improve without surgery. Our team takes a conservative-first approach with treatments designed to reduce pain, improve strength, and prevent future flare-ups.

Non-Surgical Spine, Neck & Back Treatments

  • Diagnostic Medial Branch Block A diagnostic injection using local anesthetic to confirm facet joint involvement in your pain. This temporary block helps determine if you're a candidate for radiofrequency ablation or other targeted treatments.
    • Fluoroscopy-guided precision targeting
    • Real-time pain assessment during procedure
  • Therapeutic Medial Branch Block Uses a combination of local anesthetic and corticosteroid to provide longer-lasting pain relief. Many patients experience significant improvement for several months following this treatment.
    • Extended pain relief with steroid medication
    • Outpatient procedure with minimal downtime
  • Physical Therapy Integration Following successful medial branch blocks, our physical therapists work with you to strengthen supporting muscles and improve mobility. This comprehensive approach helps maximize and extend your pain relief.
    • Customized exercise programs
    • Manual therapy techniques
  • Pain Management Optimization Our pain specialists may combine medial branch blocks with other treatments such as oral medications, topical therapies, or lifestyle modifications for comprehensive pain management.
    • Multimodal pain management approach
    • Coordinated care with other specialists
Star
Over 80% of patients experience significant pain reduction within hours of their medial branch block procedure.

Surgical Options

If Surgery is Right for You

Procedures are determined after evaluation—this list is for education only.
Medial Branch Blocks (Cervical/Lumbar)

Watch how our pain management specialists perform precision medial branch blocks using advanced fluoroscopic guidance.

Surgical Spine, Neck & Back Procedures

  • Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) Following successful diagnostic medial branch blocks, radiofrequency ablation uses controlled heat to create precise lesions on the medial branch nerves. This minimally invasive procedure can provide pain relief lasting 12-24 months.
  • Cooled Radiofrequency Ablation An advanced form of RFA that uses cooled technology to create larger, more precise lesions. This technique often provides longer-lasting relief and is particularly effective for lumbar facet joint pain.
  • Pulsed Radiofrequency A gentler alternative to traditional RFA that uses pulsed energy rather than continuous heat. This technique preserves nerve function while providing effective pain relief, making it ideal for cervical spine treatments.
Star
Studies show that 85% of patients who respond well to diagnostic medial branch blocks achieve significant long-term pain relief with radiofrequency ablation.

What to Expect During Your Medial Branch Block

1

Pre-Procedure Consultation

Your pain management physician reviews your imaging studies, discusses the procedure, and answers all your questions.

2

Preparation and Positioning

You'll be positioned comfortably on the procedure table, and the injection site will be thoroughly cleaned and numbed.

3

Fluoroscopic Guidance

Using real-time X-ray imaging, your physician precisely locates the medial branch nerves and positions the needle accurately.

4

Medication Injection

Local anesthetic (and steroid if therapeutic) is carefully injected around the targeted nerve branches.

5

Recovery and Assessment

You'll be monitored briefly in recovery, and your pain levels will be assessed to evaluate the block's effectiveness.

REAL EXPERIENCES—FROM EVALUATION THROUGH RECOVERY.

What Patients Say

ZA
Dr.Salar is a great doctor he took his time listening to my mom and hr throughly explained what to do I would recommend him to anyone
SW
Always shows concern and very professional . Love that he ask question as well as listens to your concerns as well.
SW
Dr. Salar actually took the time to listen and communicate with me the path forward to hopefully fixing my problems. Very good bedside manner and would highly recommend him to anyone that’s been dealing with doctors for a while but hasn’t been able to find a solution. Dr. Salar cares about his patients and their overall well being and it shows!
S
Doctor McCarthy goes above and beyond helping me getting thru trying times One of the finest doctors I’ve had the pleasure being with .
SW
Dr. McCarty takes time with you to understand what you’re going through and pain remedies.
TF
Dr. Oddo is compassionate, knowledgeable,experienced and very thorough. He is not only my pain doctor he is also my friend . I have worked along side Dr Oddo in the past . I cannot express enough the quality of of his care.
TL
Well,I thought Dr, Varghese was going to be my new orthopedic doctor..I seen him on Thursday December 11th..2025 he has to do two surgeries on my back..I ask for pain medication in his office I have a ruptured disc with exposed nerve Roots my pain is a definite 10! Well I got a runaround for 5 Days no pain medication. So, unfortunately I had to find another surgeon. I never thought this would happen.i am very disappointed in this orthopedic office...I have never had this problem.
TH
So far he was really nice and ready to help with my back pain
TD
It was a wonderful experience. He made jokes to calm me down. They listen very well.
TM
Dr. Salar took the time to review my case and explained a course of action which includes exercise.
TP
Dr. Salar led the team that changed my life after years of pain and diminishing quality of life. I’m three months out of 3 surgeries in 8 days, and I am riding my bike, shopping, and walking for exercise. My sciatica is gone and my scoliosis has been “caged!”
TK
Staff was friendly and the Doctor was knowledgeable with diagnosis. they really care for the patients.
TP
I brought my brother in to his appointment with Dr. McCarty. My brother had recently fallen, and fractured his back. Dr. McCarty was so kind. He was thorough in his examination of hospital reports, x-rays, and hands on identifying the exact location of the injury. He explained what was needed, and reassured us that the procedure could be addressed quickly. He answered all our questions. We had his full attention. Dr. Scott McCarty is the doctor everybody should have.
WD
I have been getting treated by Dr Otto for several years now. His depth of knowledge, understanding of my personal physical challenges and his ability to treat each of these with the utmost professionalism and compassion is why I will always recommend Dr Otto to my closest family and friends.
YH
Very pleasant takes time to explain what is going on with your health and the results.
RH
What a great Doctor Jeff Varghese is!!
PB
The consult with was very thorough and the office staff were friendly and efficient. I didn’t have to wait an inordinate amount of time for anyone. I very much appreciate the professionalism and came away with valuable advice for my condition.
RG
Dr McCarty has done 2 back surgeries on me. Both went very well. He takes the time to explain the situation, and what to expect. He is compassionate and understanding.
RR
Dr. McCarty is an excellent surgeon, takes time to explain everything, is very kind and compassionate. Highly recommend!
RJ
Dr. O is a great doctor, he has a great sense of humor and is very caring.
RP
Very good doctor and friendly staff
RW
Great experience with Dr. Salar through the entire process of cervical spinal fusion. He listens to you not as a patient or a paycheck but as a person and has a great personality. Aside from that he is an amazing surgeon and I was immediately free of the shoulder pain!
ST
I was a new patient and I was not in there all day. The staff was friendly and Dr Munk was great. The facility was nice and clean brand new state of the art facility
SG
Dr S Mc Carty is a wonderful caring physician! He knows his craft, he will care for you if you listen and as questions.The best back doctor in the USA! No Joke!!
S
Today was a great experience! Everyone was very friendly and Dr Maslak was Awesome!! He explained and answered all questions, with my options! I am so happy I found this place and Dr, for my spine issues!
SB
Good&clean...
SH
Dr McCarty and his staff were very friendly and caring. Dr McCarty was very knowledgeable. Dr McCarty told me I was a candidate for surgery, but only when I was ready. He did offer alternatives until I felt I needed surgery. I went to Dr McCarty for a second opinion, because the first Dr told me my only option was surgery. I came up from Florida to see Dr McCarty; I don’t regret that decision. If it comes down to surgery, I’d come to Michigan to have him do the surgery.
SC
This was my first time meeting Dr Munk, I just relocated from Florida, what a great experience. He went over my Xray and MRI throughly, and explained everything I was looking at. He gave me my options as well. I would recommend Dr Munk, he is very informative and present in the moment, no rushing you through. My experience at Synergy was awesome from beginning to end. Thanks
MA
Dr. Varghese is very personable, and patient. I would not hesitate to refer him to friends and family! He sometimes runs a little behind, because he won't leave the room until the patient understands his recommendations, and has gone thru his plan. He answers all the patients questions completely.
LS
Dr. Oddo is such an amazing person, and phenomenal doctor. He cares about his patients wellbeing. Dr. Oddo, listens to what you have to say; especially when it comes to your excruciating pain. I will definitely recommend Dr. Oddo to other patients. We need more compassion and caring doctors like Dr. Oddo in the medical profession. Having a doctor like Dr. Oddo who gives you the opportunity to explain your symptoms are very important. In fact, someone that never cuts you off whenever you are talking about your symptoms; he is truly but surely a blessing to his patients.
LE
Was given PA at first. I reported little help from PT for leg and back pain. She suggested only steroid injections. I requested see Dr Oddo. He offered SI injectios both legs after more PT. We discussed compression stockings and spinal injections. Need more tips on living day to day with arthritis, neurothropy, and osteoporosis without persistent pain.
MI
Dr. Varghese is an exceptional Dr who takes the times to explain, treat and puts you at ease
MJ
Dr. Oddo and the staff at thr surgery center are always very nice and professional
MB
I’ve always gotten the best care with Dr Oddo. Him and his staff are amazing. But Dr Oddo will do everything he can to help. And what I truly appreciate is I’ve never had to wait more than 15 minutes to be seen. If you have been looking for a Pain Doctor you can rest assured Dr Oddo will be able to help.
MW
Dr. Maslak took his time and asked if I had any questions or concerns. He decided that I wanted to take a conservative approach to my back issues and listened to what I had to say. Overall, it was a very positive experience.
MW
Always professional and helpful. A great doctor, who still cares about his patients.
ME
Dr. McCarty truly listens and takes his time with his patients. Offering options for complex problems and does not jump immediately to surgery.
MI
Best doctor Ive seen in a long time. Explained everything perfectly and set me up for a treatment plan. A++++
NS
Dr Varghese is exceptional. He looks you in the eye as he talks to you. Very knowledgeable and educated you on your problems. My husband was impressed that he spoke directly to him. Made sure we had no further questions before leaving the room.
PW
This was my first visit, I felt very comfortable with him. He knew what my problem was, and answered all my questions. I feel very confident that he started me on the road to recovery.
PJ
Dr. Oddo is the best. Dr doesn't rush me through my visits.
LG
Dr.. Varghese is an excellent communicator, sympathetic, and helps the patient make the game plan for the best plan of action for that individual.
LM
Dr. Jeffrey Varghese listens attentively to you and gives you the utmost care for your needs.
LA
Would strongly recommend Dr. Oddo, puts you at ease, explain in detail what he is going to do.Does not push medication,
LR
I must say I have never been treated better. When I checked in they let me know Dr. was running late . He got to me and gave me all the time I needed . He is the absolute best, I highly recommend for everything that he is to go see him if you need a doctor. I’m so impressed!
LC
Dr. Maslak actually listened to my concerns and treated me accordingly. Would highly recommend.
KR
Avery one there are always polite and professional. My visits always move right along every doctor I've seen there made me feel like I was in good hands. Highly recommend. THANK YOU TO THE STAFF AND DOCTORS.
KO
Very nice Doctor, took time to explain my situation and showed x-ray and mri to support my problem.
KL
With Cassidy Ebach Physician Assistant.my appointments have been great with information and will took her time to answer every question I had. I fell and Fractured by Back. She has taken my pain serious and not just blow me off. Dr Cassidy helped me to understand my healing process. She’s definitely a keeper. Thank you Dr Cassidy, for making me feel comfortable and seen. Kathy L Matthews
KB
Very thorough, explained things really well.
KR
Dr Otto answered all my questions.
JM
Everything went as explained by Dr Oddo and his associates. Staff very calming and helpful. Would highly recommend.
JH
Awesome from check in to check out . But Dr Oddo and his staff were awesome professional and awesome. So thank you for that. Amd Dr Oddo did a great job on this injection almost painless.
GH
Was easy to make an appointment as new patient. Dr McCarty was very professional. Very friendly. I felt comfortable. The whole office was great!
IP
Dr. Maslak, excellent Doctor!
JB
Feeling pretty good some pain but I love my doctor and technicians nurses and all of the above you guys are the greatest
JP
Dr. Maslak is caring, personable, kind and direct to the point. I feel comfortable letting him do my back surgery.
JS
To ask me for a rating is crazy. I’ll give you one alright… This facility, McCarty was just amazing. the x ray tech Ki was amazing, the nurse that was taking care of me was amazing. i felt so heard. i was in checkout area sitting down shedding tears because how good the service was. Overall just the best experience ive ever had. i wish i could pay more money to add more stars to this review!
JF
I can appreciate Dr. Jeffries, he answered all my concerns and was very patient with me time to explain in detail., and Was very professional. Thank you
JN
He's on my side. Dr Varghese has my best life as his most important care goal. I gladly follow his direction for my chronic back care. I've come to believe that he is guided by his principles. You just beat that.
JF
Personable, professional, extremely knowledgeable and believes in explaining and educating patients I appreciate that so much!
JK
Very good doctor
JR
Dr. Maslak is an outstanding doctor! He takes the time to actively listen and then thoroughly explain all the options and available treatment plans. He is empathetic, kind and very knowledgeable and incredible at explaining in a way the patient will understand. His communication skills and expertise is impeccable.
JC
Always great service and staff.
JT
Excellent staff and doctors knowledge of my symptoms
EV
This visit was an awesome experience! I have been in pain for months before I found out about doctor Munk and the team, he got the ball rolling in the same day with a pain management doctor. He explained everything and explained surgery was not needed at this time. I have went to a few doctors in the last four months with other providers and nobody came close to explaining the situation and options, it was taking forever to get things going with the others. What took months with no end in sight with others, In just one day of my time I had all the answers and began treatment. Appointment was on time and made me feel very comfortable. I live in northern Michigan and had a 4-1/2 hour drive for this appointment and it was worth every minute of it. It is definitely a one stop shop, the place is incredible from onsite MRI, x-rays, chiropractic, physical therapy, pain management and that’s just what I saw when there there’s probably more. Highly recommend the whole team! Thank you!
CW
My visit with Dr. Sallar was amazing. He listens to what you have to say and takes the time to thoroughly explain things to you in a manner that you can understand. He made me feel very comfortable. He did not dismiss anything I had to say. I'm very glad I was referred to this neurosurgeon. I know I am in good hands.
DB
Dr. Varghese is a great surgeon with an exceptional warmth and personal attentiveness . I was experiencing nerve pain and muscle spasms from compression on my cervical vertebrae. The decompression neck fusion surgery he performed alleviated my symptoms I would recommend him highly.
DW
My Doctor and stall very knowledgeable about my case and my pain.This is the first Doctor that I felt that he understood my pain.
DS
My appointment was with Dr, Maslak but I did not see the doctor at all. However, Cassidy, the PA, did an excellent job of explaining my treatment plan and options. I just wish they would let you know you would not be seeing the doctor. That’s happened to me often in this practice. But, their PA’s are excellent.
DW
The staff are professional and knowledgeable as are the doctors. Unfortunately they don't like to deal with patients who do not meet their ideal. The doctor wasn't interested in listening to the patient or family questions and comments. The only answer is that weight is the only name of the game.
EM
The medical team and Dr Oddo was very courteous and professional; my appointment was on time; the waiting was on time and the checking out was courteous and speedy; I love this office of synergy
ED
My experience with Dr. Oddo had been amazing! Dr. Oddo is very personable, knowledgeable, and well experienced. His consultation provide opportunities to discuss all questions and treatment options available. Dr. Oddo knows what works and will get you in the best plan for recovery. Trust me, make an appointment with Dr. Oddo and you will be 100% satisfied. I recommend to all family and friends with spine, disc, and nerve issues. I am post lumbar epidural and am feeling better each day.
FG
Very professional and nice
DT
Dr. Varghese is very friendly and is concerned about helping me return to normal. He takes the time to answer questions without rushing through them, ensuring that I understand everything before proceeding. He is recommended for anyone with a back injury.
CM
I feel comfortable
BC
Passionate, kind and understanding of my pain. Trying hard to help me.
BP
Took my pain very seriously & took immediate action to help me
BJ
Dr Munk was great he listened to my concerns and offered solutions
CK
Very nice doctor. Explained everything well and to my satisfaction.
C
Wonderful doctors and impeccable care. Trust all of the doctors at this organization.
C
Yesterday’s visit to Dr. Andres Munk and his staff was both informative and reassuring. Dr. Munk took the time to clearly explain each step of the appointment, answering all questions with patience and professionalism. His team was attentive and welcoming, ensuring that the experience was comfortable from start to finish. The visit provided valuable insights into my health and left me feeling well-informed and confident about the next steps in my care.
CG
Dr. Maslak is very pleasant and explains everything so that I understand. I would highly recommend him!!
CD
Synergy Health Partners always go the extra mile. I made a a same day urgent appointment after moving miles to make it happen because of the Holiday, I was scheduled with a private transportation company( which is a patient worse service), I ended up canceling the ride because he came 10 minutes before my appointment and I stay 20 minutes from the facility. I tried to get them to send me a Uber but I wouldn’t have made to the extended appointment they gave me, so I asked if I could do a virtual visit and they agreed. That made me happy because I had been in pain for the whole week.
CL
Dr McCarty is an expert surgeon. I’m 4 weeks out and I have felt 100% for the past 2 weeks. Thank you Doctor McCurty for all you have done for me.
CD
Dr McCarty was very attentive to my issues. Listened closely and came up with a starting plan to solve the problems and then take it from there. Did not wait long to be seen. Was very impressed by that and his whole staff
CC
I really enjoyed talking with Dr Varghese at my consultation, I found him to be very welcoming, kind, caring and understanding while talking to him. He showed me things on my MRI and later on my X-rays about a removal of the simulator that is in my back. I will recommend family and friends that is having the same problems I'm having to come out to Mendelson and Kornbloom and talk with Dr Varghese because he is very understanding.
CC
Everyone was very nice and professional, Dr Munk answered all my questions and hopefully everything will be fine soon
AS
Doctor Salar was taking the time to listen to all my concerns witbhhout ever making me feel rushed. Dr. Salar explained my condition and treatment options in a clear, easy-to-understand way, ensuring I was comfortable and confident. The office environment was clean and well-organized, with a very reasonable wait time. I highly recommend this practice to anyone looking for a compassionate and knowledgeable Back pain provider."
AP
My first visit with Dr. McCarty was comfortable. He listened to me describe my issues. He developed a plan for my issues, and we will follow up in a few weeks.
AK
Awesome. Dr. Maslak was very informative on explaining my MRI results and described where the problem is located. He was very caring and professional and did not rush our appointment. Dr. Maslak answered all my questions and took his time with my wife on the questions she had about my procedure. I feel very confident in Dr. Maslak.

Your Spine, Neck & Back Experts

Meet the providers who specialize in Spine, Neck & Back

Spine, Neck & Back

Lucia Zamorano, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
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Spine, Neck & Back

Andres Munk, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
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Spine, Neck & Back

Jeffrey Varghese, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.9
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Spine, Neck & Back

Joseph Maslak, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
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Pain Management

Kevin R. Lee, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
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Spine, Neck & Back

Mohamed Salar, MD

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 4.9
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Spine, Neck & Back

Scott McCarty, MD

Chief of the Department of Orthopedic Surgery

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ 5.0
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View Spine, Neck & Back Team

Spine, Neck & Back Care Near Me

Auto Accident Care

Troy

Directions
5107 Rochester Rd.,Troy. MI 48085 • (855) 750-5757
Auto Accident Care

Sterling Heights

Directions
35735 Mound Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48310 • (586) 261-1960
Surgical Centers

Synergy Surgery Center

Directions
5504 E. 12 Mile Road, Warren, MI 48071 • (586) 838-2035
Full-Service Clinics

Southfield

Directions
29275 Northwestern Hwy, #207, Southfield, MI 48034 • (855) 750-5757
Auto Accident Care

Port Huron

Directions
600 Fort St #100, Port Huron, MI 48060 • (810) 987-9871
Surgical Centers

Genesys
Surgery Center

Directions
35735 Mound Rd, Sterling Heights, MI 48310 • (855) 750-5757
Auto Accident Care

Livonia

Directions
36622 Five Mile Rd, Suite 101, Livonia, MI 48154 • (855) 750-5757
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PRECISION PAIN RELIEF

Why Choose Synergy?

Our pain management specialists combine advanced imaging technology with years of experience to deliver precise, effective medial branch blocks in our state-of-the-art facilities.
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(6 Months)

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Data Source: CODE Technology PRO Surveys (2025).