|
|
 |
 |
Facet Joint Arthritis
|
Facet joints are small stabilizing joints located on the back of the spine where one vertebra slightly overlaps the adjacent vertebra. There is a right and left facet joint at each level. These joints guide and restrict movement of the spine.
Most every flexible or movable level of the spine, with the exception of the very top vertebra, is comprised of the same elements:
- Vertebral Body - the bony building blocks of the spine
- Facet Joint - small stabilizing joints located between and behind adjacent vertebra
- Intervertebral Disc - provides cushion between each vertebral body and binds them together
Facet joints normally fit together snugly and glide smoothly, without pressure. If pressure builds where the joint meets, the cartilage disc on the joint surfaces gradually erodes. As the disc thins, the space between vertebra shrinks, causing the facet joints to press together.
Facet joints can also become arthritic due to back injury earlier in life. Fractures, torn ligaments, and disc problems can all result in abnormal movement and alignment, putting extra stress on facet joing surfaces.
The body responds to this additional pressure by developing bone spurs. As the spurs form around the edges of the facet joints, the joints become enlarged, commonly called hypertrophy. Eventually, the rubbing of the two vertebra causes joint surfaces to become inflamed, swollen, and painful (i.e., arthritic).
Facet Arthritis Symptoms
Pain from facet joint arthritis usually worsens after resting. Bending the torso sideways or backward usually produces pain on the same side as the arthritic facet joint. Pain may be felt in the center of the lower back and can spread to the buttocks and thighs, but rarely is felt below the knee.
Numbness and tingling, the symptoms of nerve compression, are usually not felt because facet arthritis generally causes only mechanical pain due to abnormal movement in the spine.
Treatment Options
Facet joint arthritis is commonly treated non-surgically. Doctors may prescribe a short period of rest, one to two days at most, to calm the inflammation and pain. Patients may find added relief by curling up to sleep on a firm mattress or by lying back with their knees bent and supported. These positions take pressure off the facet joints.
Anti-inflammatory medication, such as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) or aspirin may be prescribed. Muscle relaxants are occasionally used to calm spasms. Oral steroid medicine in tapering dosages may also be prescribed for pain.
Patients still experiencing pain after trying various treatments may require injections into the facet joint or the small nerves that go to the joint. An anesthetic or steroid medication is used to block pain coming from the facet joint.
These injections have good short-term results with few side effects. With the pain abated, patients are able to resume physical therapy treatments following an injection.
We Can Help
The physicians at the Northwest Surgical Specialists Pain Management Center are experts at diagnosing the need for and delivering soothing pain medication exactly where it will result in maximum relief.
If you or a loved one is suffering the effects of facet joint arthritis, contact the Pain Management Center at 847.885.9525 to arrange a consultation.
3100 W. Higgins Rd., Ste. 150
Hoffman Estates, IL 60169
(View Map)
Foot & Ankle Care
Pain Management
Physical Therapy
Therapeutic Massage
Skin Care
Surgical Care Center
431 Summit Street, Suite 102
Elgin, IL 60120
(View Map)
Foot & Ankle Care
Physical Therapy
431 Lakeview Court, Suite D
Mt. Prospect, IL 60056
(View Map)
Foot & Ankle Care