What is facet joint pain?
Facet joint pain is a common cause of back and neck pain originating from the facet joint in the spine.
What causes facet joint pain?
Facet joint pain can be caused by a variety of factors including arthritis, injury to the area, degeneration of the facet joints, and mechanical stress on the spine. Overuse, poor posture and obesity can all contribute to facet joint pain, as well.
What are symptoms of facet joint pain?
Symptoms of facet joint pain include localized pain in the back or neck in addition to stiffness, muscle spasms and decreased range of motion. It’s important to note that in facet joint pain, pain may worsen with certain movements or activities like bending backward or twisting the spine.
How is facet joint pain diagnosed?
To best diagnose facet joint pain, your physical therapist, orthopaedic surgeon or healthcare provider may first perform a physical examination in addition to a review of your comprehensive medical history. From there, further imaging tests like x-rays, MRIs and CT scans may be ordered to further determine the cause and extent of the joint injury and origination of the pain. Diagnostic injections, where a numbing medication is injected into the facet joint, are also used to pinpoint the source of pain and confirm diagnosis.
How is facet joint pain treated?
Treatment options for facet joint pain will aim to reduce pain, improve function of the facet joint and prevent further damage to the joint. Common treatment options include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle modifications. Minimally invasive chiropractic care, acupuncture and massage therapy may also be recommended for alleviating pain in or about the facet joint.
Work with your trusted healthcare provider to develop a treatment plan that addresses the underlying cause of your facet joint pain and manage any symptoms. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight and practicing good posture are also ways to help prevent and/or manage facet joint pain.