Facet Joint Syndrome overview
How facet joints can become painful
The facet joints are the joints between the bones of the spine and help the back bend and twist while controlling movement.
Facet joint syndrome occurs when these joints degenerate, commonly as part of ageing. Depending on the area affected, it may be described as cervical, thoracic or lumbar facet joint syndrome.
Facet joint syndrome symptoms
How symptoms differ by spinal region
Although facet joint syndrome may be present without any symptoms, the primary symptom is pain in the area of the affected joint/s.
- Pain in the neck
- Torticollis or a ‘wry’ neck
- Stiffness of the neck
- Tenderness of the area to touch
- Dull ache in lower back
- Stiffness of the lower back
- Pain when standing or sitting for long periods.
- Grinding or grating sensation in the joints when moving
- Pain that is generally worse in the morning, improving through the day.
- Difficulty with some movements e.g. getting out of a chair, standing upright.
Facet joint syndrome tests and diagnosis
How facet joint pain is assessed
Diagnosis of possible facet joint syndrome begins with a review of medical history and symptoms and an evaluation of body posture and ‘palpating’ (touching) the affected area to check for tenderness and muscle reflexes (this is to check that the nerves are functioning correctly) and range of motion tests.
Generally, imaging is not of much use in the diagnosis of facet pain. Rather, diagnostic medial branch blocks are considered most useful.
In some case an MRI scan may be recommended.
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Comprehensive pain assessments- Individual treatment planning
- Medication review and optimisation
