Facet joint arthritis affects the small joints located between and behind adjacent vertebrae, which provide stability and enable flexibility in the spine. These joints are covered with cartilage and contain lubricating fluid, allowing smooth movement. However, facet joint arthritis can lead to significant back and neck pain.
Symptoms of Facet Joint Arthritis: Common symptoms include a dull, achy pain over the spine, which can worsen with specific movements. Bending backward or twisting can intensify the pain. Chronic pain or periodic flare-ups are typical. In the neck, facet joint arthritis may limit range of motion and cause pain that radiates to the shoulders and head. In the mid-back, twisting movements may become difficult, and turning the body may be necessary to look to the sides. In the lower back, pain often radiates to the buttocks, and standing up straight or rising from a chair may be challenging.
Causes of Facet Joint Arthritis: This condition is prevalent in individuals aged 40 to 70. Aging causes the cartilage in facet joints to wear down, increasing the risk of arthritis. Factors such as injury, repetitive movements, obesity, poor posture, and other spine conditions can exacerbate facet joint arthritis. As intervertebral discs deteriorate, body weight can shift onto the facet joints, leading to cartilage breakdown and bone friction, resulting in narrowed spinal spaces and inflammation.
Diagnosis of Facet Joint Arthritis: Diagnosis involves a thorough medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic imaging. During a physical exam, doctors assess pain location, range of motion, and nerve and muscle function through specific movements. Imaging tests such as X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs help visualize degenerative changes and the condition of bones, muscles, nerves, ligaments, and cartilage. These tests confirm the diagnosis and rule out other spine and hip-related issues.
Treatments for Facet Joint Arthritis: Treatment typically starts with non-surgical methods. Pain relief medications, including painkillers and steroids, can reduce inflammation and discomfort. Physiotherapy strengthens back muscles and improves posture. Joint injections and nerve blocks can numb irritated nerves and alleviate pain. Patients may be advised to correct posture and lose weight to reduce stress on the joints. If conservative treatments are ineffective, options like injections, ablations, or surgery may be considered. In severe cases, spine fusion surgery might be necessary to stabilize the spine by removing disc remnants and fusing adjacent vertebrae, alleviating nerve root compression caused by enlarged facet joints, degenerative disc disease, or spinal instability.
Understanding facet joint arthritis and its treatment options can help individuals manage symptoms effectively and improve their quality of life.
