The spine consists of 3 main components at nearly every level. One of these components are facet joints — small joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae. These joints serve the purpose of stabilizing the spine and also function as shock absorbers. Any damage or pain caused to the facet joint can be excruciating, with adverse effects for the patient.
What Is Facet Joint Pain?
Inflammation within the facet joint area is one of the most common symptoms, along with stiffness and soreness which might be so painful that those suffering have to turn their entire body to move. Ailments associated with facet joints include:
- Natural wear and tear from the aging process
- Osteoarthritis
- Dislocation
- Fracture
- Injury or trauma
- Surgery
Symptoms of Facet Joint Pain
These ailments can be associated with a variety of symptoms:
- Low-back pain which radiates to the buttocks and the back of the upper leg (lumbar facet joint pain)
- Neck pain which radiates to the shoulders and upper back (cervical facet joint pain)
- Acute flashes of pain in the lumbar and cervical areas of the spine
- Discomfort while leaning backwards
- Inflammation and tenderness near the affected facet joint
Osteoarthritis and Facet Joints
Osteoarthritis is a very common form of arthritis which targets and damages the joint. It is a progressive disease — the condition and symptoms will worsen with time. The cartilage of the joint helps absorb shock and allows flexibility. Once degraded, patients experience pain with movement, and if completely degraded, the bones come into constant contact causing excruciating pain. Facet joints in the spine are particularly susceptible to arthritis, known as facet joint arthritis or facet arthropathy.
Diagnosing Facet Joint Pain
Diagnosis of facet joint pain is a bit tricky because facet joints are deep in the back under a tract of muscles. The process is usually conducted through a physical examination by one of our specialists. In some cases, a facet joint injection, MRI, or CT scan might also be needed to accurately perform the diagnosis.
Solutions for Facet Joint Pain
Treatment solutions are available for facet joint pain and problems. At Progressive Pain and Rehabilitation, we utilize quality methods that are proven to work:
- Chiropractic care
- Physical therapy
- Osteopathic medicine with posture correction
- Anti-inflammatory medicine
- Heat therapy
- Exercise programs
Ready to Start Your Recovery?
Our specialists at Progressive Pain & Rehabilitation are here to help you find the right treatment plan.
Schedule Your Appointment