Facet joints are the connections between vertebrae located in the back of the spine. The facets limit movement of the spine and provide stability. Like the knee joint, the facet joints are wrapped in ligaments, have cartilage, and contain synovial fluid. Similarly, facet joints are susceptible to traumatic ligament tears and wear and tear causing bone on bone arthritis pain.
Common presentation of symptoms include:
Facet joint injury can be associated with pain and stiffness. The pain from an injured facet joint can be near the spine, but it can also refer to other locations. For example, pain from cervical (neck) facet joint injury may radiate toward the back of the head, ear, or shoulder. Pain from lumbar (low back) facet joint injury may radiate toward the buttock, hip, or thigh. The pain is often worse with movement or after a period of inactivity or sleep.
No matter what type of pain you are experiencing or the frequency, if your spine pain is affecting your ability to carry out your daily activities, the CPMP | Comprehensive Pain Management Partners team of spine and pain management specialists can help.
If you have back pain, platelet rich plasma therapy may help. It uses parts of your own blood to help your body heal itself. PRP can help your back feel better and work better.
Facet joint pain typically occurs from: arthritis or from traumatic injury like a motor vehicle accident. Arthritis may develop as a result of:
Determining the source of your spine pain will help determine the most appropriate personalized treatment plan. The CPMP | Comprehensive Pain Management Partners team of spine and pain management specialists can diagnose facet joint pain during a comprehensive history and physical examination. In addition, we may also request diagnostic tests such as an MRI or CT scan.
Conservative care including physical therapy, massage, TENS units, acupuncture, chiropractic, pilates and yoga are often recommended to focus on postural correction, stretching, and strengthening the abdominal and low back muscles.
When conservative treatments fail, a facet joint injection or radiofrequency ablation may be recommended. In addition to these traditional treatments, newer treatments may be offered, including injection of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and/or stem cells. These cutting edge treatments are considered experimental by insurance and are an out-of-pocket expense (not typically covered by medical insurance).