These blocks are used as therapeutic or diagnostic tools and are performed using two techniques: the medial branch technique and the intra-articular technique. Facet joints are located in between the vertebral posterior elements of the spine on each side from the sacrum to the axis. With the assistance of fluoroscopy, the needle is placed near the affected facet that could be causing the pain and then is injected with a local anesthetic. Often they are performed at multiple levels. Steroids can be added for treatment. Another technique is utilized far more frequently than steroids as steroids give such short term relief. This involves injecting 0.35ml to 0.50ml of a solution of either high concentrations of dextrose or Marcaine/Phenol/Sarapin. These latter solutions can dramatically decrease pain after several days and provide, potentially, weeks of excellent pain relief as they are nearly neurolytic in action.