Facet Joint Syndrome

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Lower back pain may be triggered by a variety of underlying diseases and one of the most common causes for the same is a condition called facet joint syndrome. This ailment is often identified to be the primary reason for back pain in individuals. Here's more.

Facet joints connect the vertebrae with the spine and facilitate mobility of the same. They also work as stabilizers and prevent any excess of motion that could damage the spine. They also help keep the body upright.

Facet joint syndrome refers to inflammation of the facet joints owing to injury or arthritis. People suffering from this condition may experience pain and stiffness. Along with the lower back; joints of the neck and cervical spine may also be affected by this disease.

The lower back is most commonly affected by facet joint syndrome. Symptoms for the same include pain in the lumbar area, as well as pain in the buttocks or thighs, stiffness of the back, difficulty with movements such as getting out of a chair or standing up, and hunched shoulders.

The syndrome is triggered by a variety of causes including ageing. Advancing age can cause the cartilage cushioning of the bone to wear away, resulting in pain as the bones in the joint rub together. The smaller nerves that branch off the larger spinal ones could also become irritated and pinched- leading to soreness. This disease is most commonly diagnosed in people who are 50 years or above.

However, younger people may also be vulnerable to facet joint syndrome. Causes for the same include whiplash injury in the cervical area, sport activities and gymnastics that put strain on the neck, arthritis, spinal misalignment due to poor posture, inflammation, infection and joint degeneration.

Most physicians conduct a physical examination to diagnose the syndrome. The patient's past health history is also taken into consideration for the same. X-rays, CT (Computerized Tomography) spinal scan and MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) may also be carried out to rule out fractures or herniated disk problems. A facet joint block would be performed as well, to determine if pain is originating from the joints.

Patients diagnosed with facet joint syndrome are treated with a variety of medications and lifestyle changes. Common drugs for pain relief of the joints include NSAIDS or non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs such as Ibuprofen or Naproxyn. Muscle relaxants and narcotic pain relievers may be prescribed for severe pain conditions as well.

Lastly, patients may also be required to undergo physical therapy and posture correction classes, to combat the condition. An appropriate exercise program coupled with activity modification- by avoiding excessive lifting, stretching and bending- can also help accelerate the healing process.