Synapse Pain & Spine Clinic

Facet Joint Arthropathy

Facet Joint Arthropathy

Facet Joint Arthropathy

What Is Facet Joint Arthropathy?

  • Facet joints are small joints in the back of the human spine. 
  • These joints allow bending and twisting movements of the spine. 
  • If these joints get injured due to trauma or become arthritic due to wear and tear and age, it results in Facet Joint Pain Arthropathy.
  • The facet joint is more common in old age people. It may occur in Young Adults primarily due to injury/trauma.

How Does Facet Joint Pain Feel?

  • Facet Joint pain is expected in the lower back (lumbar) region.
  • The pain is usually in the lower backs, buttocks, back & side of the thighs. 
  • The pain may increase on bending back and lateral rotation. 
  • Back pain may be worse in the morning with stiffness.

How Does Facet Joint Pain Get Confirmed?

  • Your pain physician will first examine your back thoroughly after taking your Medical History.
  • He may ask for blood tests and some Imaging Tests like X-ray, CT Scan or MRI of the lumbar spine to accurately diagnose the source of your pain. 
  • CT Scan or MRI images may show facet joint arthropathy. 

What Is the Treatment for Facet Joint Pain?

Initial Treatment –

  • Initial therapy may include pain killers, NSAIDS (short course), muscle relaxants, etc.

Physical therapy-

  • Physical therapy and spine strengthening exercises can help to reduce facet joint pain.

Facet joint injections- 

  • Suppose the Above Treatments do not give a satisfactory response. In that case, Your Pain Physician may Recommend you for Facet joint injections.
  • Facet joint injections are the most effective treatment for Facet Joint Pain. 
  • These procedures are done under X-ray guidance on a daycare basis and are safe procedures. 
  • Your pain physician may decide to do a facet joint injection or radiofrequency treatment for the nerves supplying the facet joints. 
  • These procedures are done under IV sedation and local anaesthesia and last about 30-40 mins. 
  • They are usually covered by medical insurance.

Get Rid of All Your Pain Concerns

Book Your Consultation Now