Facet joints

Facet Joints are a pair of small joints at each segment of the spine that provide stability and help guide motion. The facet joints can become painful due to arthritis, back injury, or mechanical stress to the back.

Anatomy

The facet joints are located on the back of the spine, with one on each side of the vertebrae. They are lined with cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with synovial fluid, which lubricates the joints and allows for smooth movement.

Function

The facet joints work together with the discs to allow movement and provide stability for the spine. They also prevent excessive rotation or extension of the spine.

Conditions Affecting Facet Joints

Several conditions can affect the facet joints and cause pain, including:

• Facet joint syndrome: This is a type of arthritis that affects the facet joints. It can cause pain, stiffness, and a loss of flexibility in the spine.
• Facet joint osteoarthritis: This is a degenerative condition that can cause the cartilage in the facet joints to wear away, leading to bone-on-bone contact and pain.
• Facet joint injury: An injury to the facet joints can cause pain and inflammation. This can occur as a result of a sudden movement or trauma, such as a car accident or fall.

Treatment

Treatment for facet joint pain can include:

• Physical therapy: This can help to strengthen the muscles around the facet joints and improve flexibility.
• Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help to reduce pain and inflammation.
• Facet joint injections: These can help to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief from pain.
• Surgery: In severe cases, surgery may be necessary to remove the affected facet joints and fuse the vertebrae together.

See Also

• Spine
• Vertebrae
• Arthritis
• Physical therapy
• Facet joint injections

Facet joints Resources
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